Russia Rejects Truce on Black Sea Attacks

Russia has rejected Ukraine's proposal for a truce on attacking civilian ships in the Black Sea, calling it a 'half-measure' that would only give Ukrainian forces temporary breathing space.

The proposal was made through an intermediary and aimed to halt attacks on commercial vessels, but Russia claims it never received an official proposal from Turkey, which has been keen to oversee a moratorium on military action at sea.

Ukraine's grain exports have plunged by three-quarters in August compared to last year due to the ongoing conflict, putting worldwide food prices under strain. Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotskyi warns that global food prices could increase by 25% to 30% if the issue is not resolved.