MSC Suspends Novorossiysk Bookings After Drone Attack

The world's largest container shipper, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co., has suspended all new bookings to and from the Russian port of Novorossiysk. The decision follows a drone attack on one of its vessels, the MSC ULSAN III.

In a notice to customers, the company announced the immediate suspension and advised clients to seek logistics alternatives through its Russian agency while it monitors the situation. Despite the idling of operations at Novorossiysk, the shipping line continues to operate from other Russian ports, including St. Petersburg.

This suspension comes during a broader escalation of attacks on commercial ships and ports in the Black Sea by Russia and Ukraine since July. These hostilities have disrupted grain exports, driving wheat prices to a three-year high, and have reduced the export of Russian coal and steel.