Tactics Institute’s Maritime Security Series follows an Area Studies approach, engaging regional experts for an in-depth look at different maritime security sub-systems.

Our first video takes a look at Russian engagement in the Sea of Azov, with renowned security analyst Dr Nickolay Kapitonenko interviewing Professor Yevgeniya Gaber, Deputy Director of Hennadii Udovenko, the Ukrainian Diplomatic Academy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ukraine.

In the interview, Professor Gaber provides insights into the implications of Russia’s engagement in the Sea of Avoz on Ukrainian and wider European maritime security.

Professor Gaber views the Azov crisis as emblematic of Russia’s plans for the region, rather than as an isolated situation, citing several factors, including the increased militarisation of the area and creeping economic warfare which is a threat to Ukraine.

As the main ports in the Avoz are not the biggest in the country in terms of imports and exports, Professor Gaber indicates that Russian activities in the Sea of Avoz can be viewed as a sign of things to come at busier ports, should there be an escalation.

The discussion also considers how effective international law international law has been in de-escalating the crisis in Ukraine in the context of Kiev’s need to see restrictions eased. And Professor Gaber considers the likelihood and merits of the deployment of a NATO Black Sea fleet.

Nickolay Kapitonenko, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Institute of International Relations of Kyiv National Taras Shevchenko University. He’s also a Director to the Center of International Studies, an NGO, specializing at regional security studies and foreign policy of Ukraine.

Professor Yevgeniya Gaber is the Deputy Director of Hennadii Udovenko, the Ukrainian Diplomatic Academy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ukraine.