EU Calls for Moratorium on Black Sea Attacks Amid Ukraine's Grain Export Crisis

Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, called on Monday for a moratorium on attacks in the Black Sea region. This move aims to restore grain exports from Ukraine.

The EU is concerned about the impact of Russian aggression on global food security, with agricultural product prices rising significantly in 2022. The Black Sea plays a crucial role in international trade, energy, and food security.

Kallas emphasized that Ukraine remains a key exporter of agricultural products, providing 15% of the world's corn exports, 10% of wheat, 15-20% of barley, and about 50% of sunflower oil. Approximately 90% of these products are transported through the Black Sea corridor.

The EU has already mobilized €2.1 billion in support to strengthen global food security and is helping Ukraine find new grain storage facilities. The Solidarity Routes initiative started in May 2022, ensuring trade worth around €304 billion, partially compensating for the blockade of seaports.