Ukraine Cracks Down on Illicit Grain Exports with New Sanctions Package

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a decree imposing sanctions on individuals and companies involved in the illegal export of Ukrainian grain. The sanctions package includes 13 maritime vessels from various countries, including Russia, Panama, Belize, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The vessels are accused of transporting grain from temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine without proper authorization. Additionally, 11 Russian citizens and 28 legal entities have been targeted by the sanctions.

According to Vladyslav Vlasuk, an advisor on sanctions policy for Zelensky, the goal is to hold those responsible accountable. 'The illegal export of Ukrainian grain from the temporarily occupied territories must have consequences for everyone involved: from companies and owners to captains and vessels,' he said.