UK, Russia, and the Black Sea: A 21st Century Power Struggle
The Black Sea has become a flashpoint in today’s global power competition. But this isn’t new. The United Kingdom has had deep-rooted strategic interests in the region since the 19th century, most notably during the Crimean War (1853–1856). Then, as now, Britain was focused on checking Russian expansion and preserving access to vital sea lanes.
Today, the same dynamics are re-emerging. According to Chatham House, Russia sees the Black Sea not just as a regional asset but as a launchpad for global influence. This has revived UK strategic attention to the area—and Britain isn’t alone.
Russia’s Black Sea Ambition
Russia’s modern Black Sea strategy centers around militarized control. After annexing Crimea in 2014, Moscow transformed the peninsula into a naval fortress. Since then, Russia has upgraded its Black Sea Fleet and installed powerful anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) systems.
It’s not just about military power. Russia also wants control over energy corridors, undersea pipelines, and trade routes. This helps Moscow project power into the Eastern Mediterranean, threaten NATO’s southern flank, and influence global energy markets.
Chatham House notes that Russia’s strategy combines hard power with political messaging. Maritime pressure is applied to Ukraine, NATO ships are shadowed, and hybrid tactics blur lines between commerce, law enforcement, and warfare.
The UK’s Renewed Strategic Focus
Historically, Britain entered the Crimean War to prevent Russia from dominating the Ottoman Empire and threatening Mediterranean access. Fast forward to 2025, and similar goals are at play.
Britain doesn’t want to see Russia close the Black Sea to Western naval and commercial presence. That’s why the Royal Navy continues to participate in joint NATO patrols, especially after Russia’s withdrawal from the Grain Deal and subsequent attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure.
The UK also supports Ukraine with naval training, unmanned systems, and intelligence cooperation. Britain sees this not only as support for a partner nation but as part of a broader strategy to keep Russia contained and the Black Sea open.
Turkey: The Deciding Actor
Turkey holds a unique role due to the Montreux Convention of 1936. This agreement gives Ankara control over the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits. It limits foreign warship access in peacetime and even more so during wartime.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Turkey has tried to walk a fine line. It has kept the straits closed to all warships, effectively freezing the naval balance. This helped stop Russia from moving reinforcements by sea—but it also limited NATO responses.
Turkey wants to maintain influence and neutrality. But its position has become more complicated. It sells drones to Ukraine while still trading with Russia. It hosts NATO assets, but also engages in energy deals with Moscow. All eyes are now on how Ankara will tilt as pressure from both sides grows.
Britain and NATO: Coordinated Moves
The UK continues to work closely with Romania and Bulgaria to improve regional maritime awareness. Royal Navy ships also make port visits in Constanta and Varna as symbolic shows of presence.
Meanwhile, NATO has increased surveillance and integrated coastal defenses along the western Black Sea. The UK plays a leading role in shaping this response.
Intelligence sharing, joint exercises like Sea Breeze, and logistical support for Ukraine form a multi-pronged containment strategy.
Why It Matters
If Russia gains full control over the Black Sea, it would:
- Undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty.
- Threaten NATO’s southern allies.
- Disrupt global grain and energy markets.
- Weaken European maritime trade routes.
For Britain, keeping the Black Sea open is not just about helping Ukraine—it’s about protecting own interest as global player.
