Russia's Black Sea Blockade Sparks Global Food Crisis Fears
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia's actions pose a threat to global grain prices, potentially leading to another food crisis.
In an evening address, Zelensky stated that Russia is deliberately targeting Ukrainian agricultural enterprises and ports. He noted that the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs should inform international partners and organizations about the consequences of these strikes on agricultural infrastructure and the blocking of grain exports.
Zelensky reminded his audience that a similar situation occurred in 2022, when food security was threatened due to Russian aggression. Now, he said, Russia's actions could again cause a blow to living costs in countries such as Egypt, Libya, and others that rely on imports of grain and grain processing products.
The President added that Ukraine is preparing to counter Russia's actions and will coordinate its steps with international partners to protect global food security. He also drew an analogy between Russia's actions in the Black Sea region and Iran's actions at the Strait of Hormuz, stating that both are attempts to disrupt food supplies.