The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has concluded disciplinary proceedings against the head of the State Shipping Administration, Serhii Gurskyi, and lifted the previously imposed restriction of suspension from official duties. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing relevant government decrees adopted on November 11, 2026.
What exactly did the Cabinet of Ministers decide?
By Decree No. 1190-r dated November 11, the government declared the previous decision of September 9, 2026, by which Serhii Gurskyi was suspended from the duties of the head of the Shipping Administration, as null and void. The suspension was in effect during the disciplinary proceedings. By a separate act — Decree No. 1189-r of the same date — the Cabinet closed these proceedings. Thus, all restrictions related to Gurskyi's suspension were officially lifted, and he is returning to the performance of his duties.
Gurskyi's own reaction
Commenting on the government's decision, Serhii Gurskyi stated that he had been interested in a complete and impartial investigation from the beginning. "My principled position was not to avoid answering any questions, but on the contrary — to ensure the verification of all circumstances in order to prove my lack of involvement in the accusations spread against me on social networks," he noted. Gurskyi also thanked the participants of the audit for their objectivity and impartiality, and representatives of the maritime industry, public associations, and seafarers for their support throughout the suspension period.
How the situation developed before this
The basis for the disciplinary proceedings was public statements by MP Anna Skorokhod regarding possible corruption violations in the Shipping Administration, particularly in the area of shipping on the Danube and the processing of seafarer documents. In September 2026, the government suspended Serhii Gurskyi from his duties while an investigation was ongoing. Following the review of materials, the proceedings were closed, and the suspension was lifted.
Priorities after returning to work
Upon returning to work, Serhii Gurskyi stated his intention to continue changes within the Shipping Administration. Among the identified priorities, he named increasing process transparency, improving services for seafarers, strengthening the institution's capacity, and bolstering trust in the Ukrainian flag. "This period should become not only the result of the investigation but also a starting point for further work," emphasized Gurskyi. The Shipping Administration itself confirmed that they will continue working on the priorities of developing Ukraine's maritime and inland water transport.
Context for the industry
The Cabinet's decision comes against the backdrop of an ongoing discussion in the maritime industry about trust in port infrastructure and the sustainability of export logistics. Previously, industry participants pointed out positive changes in the work of the Shipping Administration and also discussed challenges such as the blockade of Great Odesa ports and their transformation into a factor of shipping development. Closing the disciplinary proceedings and Gurskyi's return to duties are viewed as a signal of stabilizing the management situation within the agency.
