Palau International Ship Registry issued Circular regarding Level 3 Security Alert for Ships due to Geopolitical Conflict in Ukraine, Black Sea, Sea of Azov

The Ship Administration of the Republic of Palau is requiring a setting of SHIP SECURITY LEVEL III for all Palau-registered vessels operating in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Ukraine or Russia within the Black Sea.

Company Security Officers (CSOs) and Ship Security Officers (SSOs) should obtain security level information prior to entering ports through the appropriate Port Authorities. Ships should comply with the Port Facility security level if it is higher than the security level set onboard.

GUIDANCE:

For Palau flagged vessels trading in Russian or Ukrainian ports, ship masters are strongly advised to contact local agents for the latest advisories.
Commercial vessels are advised to avoid any transit or operation within the EEZ of Ukraine or Russia within the Black Sea. Access to the Sea of Azov through the Kerch Strait is currently blocked by Russian forces.
In case a vessel is located at a Ukrainian port, plans to depart should be arranged as soon as safely possible, as all Ukrainian ports have been closed by the Ukrainian military.
Access to the northwest Black Sea, north of 45° 21’ is restricted by the Russian Navy.
Vessels must ensure the automatic identification system (AIS) is always transmitting, in accordance with provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), and monitor VHF Channel 16. Exceptions are accepted only if the master believes that continuing to operate AIS might put in risk the safety or security of the ship or when a security incident is imminent.
In case a vessel is challenged by Russian military, it is strongly recommended to comply fully with instructions.
While operating in the Black Sea, armed security personnel are not to be embarked.