Ukraine keeps exports moving despite surge in Russian drone attacks

Ukraine’s ports are facing an intense wave of Russian drone strikes. Despite that, they continue to operate as a key lifeline for exports.

Russia has launched more than 800 drones at port infrastructure in 2026. According to the Kyiv Independent, that is a sharp rise from just 75 attacks in 2025.

Under pressure

Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba said the scale of attacks has increased nearly 11-fold. He warned that ports remain a central target for Russian forces.

“Ports remain a key target of (Russian) attacks,” Kuleba said on Telegram, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. Much of the recent pressure has focused on Odesa Oblast.

Since the full-scale invasion began, more than 900 port facilities have been damaged. At least 177 civilian vessels have also been affected, he added.

Still operating

Despite repeated strikes, Ukraine’s port network continues to function. The Kyiv Independent reported that nearly 30 million tons of cargo have been handled this year.

Keeping exports moving is seen as critical for the economy. It also helps maintain global supply chains disrupted by the war.

“Our task is to strengthen the protection of port infrastructure and ensure the stable operation of logistics even in the face of constant attacks,” Kuleba said.

Cost of attacks

Strikes on port regions have also caused casualties. In one attack on March 3, two people were killed and five injured, according to regional authorities cited by the Kyiv Independent.

Governor Oleh Kiper said the attack hit infrastructure in Odesa Oblast. Civilian areas have repeatedly been affected by the strikes.

The Black Sea remains a key front in the war. Attacks on ports have reduced Ukraine’s ability to use its main pre-war trade route.

Defending trade

Ukraine has taken steps to protect its export hubs. Kuleba said specialized air defence units have been deployed at ports.

These units include workers from local businesses and war veterans. Their role is to improve interception of incoming drones.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has also ordered stronger air defences in Odesa. The focus is on keeping trade routes open despite continued attacks.

Sources: Kyiv Independent, Oleksii Kuleba (Telegram)

This article is made and published by Mikkel Christensen, who may have used AI in the preparation