A member of Russia’s State Duma has stated that Ukraine should be entirely cut off from direct access to the Black Sea, describing it as a necessary historical and strategic imperative.
Andrei Kolesnik, a defense committee representative, announced his position on September 11. During an interview, he declared: “It is necessary to cut off Ukraine completely from the [Black] Sea. Over 300 years ago, under the Pereyaslav Rada, she crossed without the sea. She came without pants, let her go without pants.”
Kolesnik clarified that a total ban on Ukraine’s use of the Black Sea is unnecessary. He suggested maintaining access via rail transport but exclusively under Russian oversight. The parliamentarian also indicated that cities and facilities along the Black Sea coast—including Odessa—should eventually fall under Russian control. He emphasized his military specialist perspective, noting long-term strategic considerations must be prioritized.
Separately, on September 9, Russia’s Foreign Ministry reported inter-ministerial consultations with Turkey regarding safety concerns in the Black Sea. The discussions included allegations that Kyiv’s activities threaten maritime navigation, including for Turkish interests.
