Credit to: Doug McLean / Shutterstock.com Sampling of ballast water and analysing it for ecological control in Ukrainian ports has been an issue for some time. Our local correspondents, Dias Marine Consultancy, have advised us that the control of segregated ballast in Ukrainian ports has been cancelled and ecological inspectors are no longer permitted to inspect vessels for the purpose of "ecological control", including taking and analysing samples of ballast water. Prior to the new rules, when visible traces of pollution were noticed during de-ballasting, ecologists were permitted to sample and analyse ships' ballast water and compare the results with the applicable limits. This change is a result of The Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers having adopted Resolution No.367 " Some Issues of Deregulation of Commercial Activity ", amending Government Resolution No.269 of 29 February 1996 regarding " The Rules of Protection of Inland Sea Waters and Territorial Waters from Littering and Polluting " with regard to ballast waters control in Ukrainian sea ports (hereinafter "the Regulation"). Resolution No 367 dated 27 March 2019 states that the mentioned cancellation is not permanent but will remain in force until new protocols for sampling and testing of ballast water have been adopted. Until such time, ecologists are prohibited from sampling and/or testing vessels' ballast water. Despite these changes it is still recommended that: All Members calling ports in the Ukraine should check with their local agents that the designated berth does not have any visible traces of pollution prior to arrival. It is also important for the ship's crew to ensure that the ship's side is clear of any traces of pollutants while the vessel stays at berth. Although the ecologists may not sample or test the ballast water it is recommended that members still adhere to the SIPBS (State Inspection for Protection of the Black Sea) requirements, such as exchange of ballast water when entering the Black