Ukraine Accuses Russia of Flouting Sea Law Over Kerch Strait

Ukraine has accused Russia at an international court of violating sea law by controlling the Kerch Strait between mainland Russia and annexed Crimea. The dispute follows Russia's construction of the Crimea Bridge. Russia dismissed the claims, arguing the arbitration court lacks jurisdiction.

Ukraine charged Russia with violating international sea law by attempting to monopolize control over the Kerch Strait at a Hague-based court on Monday. Kyiv launched proceedings in 2016, accusing Moscow of restricting international ship passage via the 19 km Crimea Bridge, crucial for supplying annexed Crimea.

Kyiv argues the bridge was designed to block larger international vessels while permitting smaller Russian ships, affecting the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. Ukraine's representative, Anton Korynevych, stated that Russia aims to dominate the Kerch Strait.

However, Russia's representative, Gennady Kuzmin, labeled Ukraine's case as baseless and asserted the court lacked the authority to rule. Kuzmin contended there was no Russian interference with navigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)