“Russian Black Sea Strikes Delay Grain Supplies to Palestinians and Global South”

(Reuters) – Russia’s attacks on Black Sea ports causing delays in aid delivery and grain shipments

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed concern over Russia’s increased attacks on Black Sea ports in Ukraine, stating that these actions are impeding vital aid reaching Palestinians and disrupting crucial grain supplies to the global south. Starmer condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to jeopardize global food security in his pursuit to subjugate Ukraine.

The United Nations reported that Russian strikes on Ukrainian Black Sea ports have resulted in damage to six civilian vessels and grain infrastructure since September 1, labeling the escalation in attacks as “distressing”. British Defence Intelligence revealed that four merchant vessels have been hit by Russian munitions in the Black Sea between October 5-14.

Starmer emphasized that Putin’s actions are negatively impacting millions of vulnerable individuals in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, as shipments of vegetable oil to the World Food Programme in Palestine and grain destined for Egypt and southern Africa have been delayed due to the strikes. Ukraine, a significant global producer of wheat and corn, exported approximately six million tons of grain monthly via the Black Sea before the Russian invasion in 2022. Despite the ongoing conflict, grain sales continue to be a crucial revenue source for the country.

Following the collapse of a U.N.-backed Black Sea grain export initiative involving Russia last year, Ukraine has established a shipping corridor in the Black Sea to ensure the safe passage of grain ships.