The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a new compensation mechanism for war-related losses in civilian shipping. Resolution No. 1248 was adopted on October 7, 2026, and officially published on October 15. The government may reimburse up to 80% of assessed losses incurred by owners, operators and charterers of maritime and inland waterway vessels transporting non-military cargo through Ukraine's open ports. The scheme applies to vessels flying both Ukrainian and foreign flags.
Compensation is available for losses not covered by insurance. Eligible damage includes the loss or destruction of a vessel, repair and emergency rescue costs, loss or damage to cargo, and injuries or loss of life among crew members. The mechanism applies to vessels operating in Ukraine's territorial waters, along the Temporary Maritime Route and within the waters of open Ukrainian ports. Losses must be assessed by an independent valuer, with the assessment report reviewed by Ukraine's State Property Fund.
To receive compensation, applicants must submit a claim to the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development within 180 calendar days of the incident. Payments will be financed from the state budget and made in Ukrainian hryvnia to an account held with a Ukrainian bank. Losses incurred in 2026 after the resolution takes effect will be compensated using 2027 budget allocations. The scheme excludes sanctioned persons and certain vessel owners and beneficiaries associated with Russia and Belarus, as specified in the regulation.
The decision is particularly important for Ukraine's agricultural sector because maritime transport remains the main export route for grain, vegetable oil and other agricultural products. War-related threats expose shipowners to high insurance costs and the risk of damage to their vessels. State compensation guarantees are intended to reduce financial risks for carriers, support the stable operation of Ukrainian ports and help create more predictable conditions for agricultural export logistics.
Original source: Ministry for Restoration, Infrastructure and Transport of Ukraine