UN Warns Russia's Black Sea Attacks Threaten Global Food Security

Russian air strikes targeting Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea have created substantial risks to global food security, according to Kayoko Gotoh, head of the UN Department of Political Affairs. The attacks have hit civilian vessels and ports such as Odesa, Chornomorsk, Pivdennyi, Izmail, and Mykolaiv, resulting in over six attacks on civilian vessels this month alone.

Gotoh stated that the world wheat prices have risen about 20 percent since the start of the month, reaching their highest level since March 2024. The UN also reported that Russian air strikes have killed more than 170 civilians and wounded 1,028 since the beginning of July, with residential buildings, playgrounds, gas stations, markets, and logistics warehouses being hit.

The UN has urged parties to renew diplomatic efforts and agree to an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire. Gotoh emphasized that such a step is necessary for achieving a just and lasting peace under the UN Charter and international law.