Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 2
2
Paragraph: 13
The UK, working with NATO allies and other UN Member states, should insist Russia lifts...
Conclusion
The UK, working with NATO allies and other UN Member states, should insist Russia lifts restrictions on the movement of foreign vessels in the Black Sea, particularly in the Kerch Strait, which is in violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and Russia’s agreement with Ukraine on maritime cooperation in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. If Russia does not comply with UNCLOS rules, the UK should support Ukraine’s efforts to seek resolution through the dispute mechanism under Part XV of the UNCLOS, either through the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea or to the International Court of Justice or an arbitral tribunal.
Paragraph Reference:
13
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government notes the Committee’s recommendation. The UK has consistently stood with Ukraine in opposing all instances of Russian aggression towards Ukraine, including Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea. We will continue to work with our Allies and partners to defend the Rules-Based International System and the institutions that uphold them. We are committed to asserting Freedom of Navigation where it is challenged. We call on Russia to stop interfering with the navigational rights of Ukrainian and international ships, and to allow free and unhindered passage of through the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov. The Carrier Strike Group deployment demonstrates the UK’s enduring commitment to NATO and our support for NATO missions in the Black Sea region, including to advance regional security, stability and freedom of navigation.