In a statement WOAC said: 'Representatives met today in response to this morning's sudden and unacceptable invasion of the Ukraine by Russian forces to consider the threat posed to UK seafarers, and seafarers generally of all nationalities in the region. They noted their particular concern for all seafarers wherever they are serving at sea at this deeply worrying time.'

'The WOAC proposes a Warlike Operations Area be declared with immediate effect for all Ukrainian, Russian and International Waters north of 44°North in the Black Sea.'

The WOAC consists of the UK Chamber of Shipping, Nautilus International and the RMT union.