Overview
- Zelensky signed a decree creating the Naval Academy during a visit to Odesa on July 4, 2026 after a coordination meeting with Naval Command about southern security.
- The academy will be built on the existing Institute of Naval Forces at the National University ‘Odesa Maritime Academy’ to restore a dedicated, full higher naval school.
- Officials link the move to efforts to strengthen southern defenses, with a focus on air defense, counter‑drone systems, more helicopters, improved communications and mine‑countermeasure capabilities.
- Zelensky publicly honored naval units with a battle flag and bravery ribbons and said Ukrainian maritime operations, including actions around Zmiinyi (Snake) Island, have weakened Russia’s hold on the Black and Azov Seas.
- The decision addresses a training gap created after 2014 when Ukraine’s sole naval academy was restructured after the annexation of Crimea, and aims to supply officers with practical combat and operational experience for long‑term naval rebuilding.