Russia's Maritime Assault on Ukraine Threatens Global Food Security

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has had far-reaching consequences for maritime trade and global food security. According to Ukraine's delegation, Russian forces have attacked 232 civilian vessels in the Black Sea since the start of the invasion, with over 1,000 pieces of port infrastructure destroyed.

The attacks have resulted in the deaths or injuries of 307 Ukrainian and foreign nationals, with more than 30 civilian vessels struck during the summer of 2026 alone. The delegation stressed that Russia's systematic targeting of civilian cargo ships, Ukrainian ports, and grain storage facilities is an attempt to disrupt maritime trade and threaten global food security.

The situation has reached a critical point, as continued Russian attacks on shipping could jeopardize food supplies for millions of people in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. Ukraine's delegation warned that Russia is attempting to block the operation of Ukrainian ports at the height of the harvest season and halt Ukraine's maritime grain exports.

The OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation was told by Ukraine that it will continue using all available means to ensure freedom of navigation, protect its ports and maritime infrastructure, safeguard civilians, and defend its national security. The statement came after an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council earlier this week to discuss Russia's attacks on civilian vessels operating in the Black Sea.