putin's black sea gambit threatens global food stability
Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea, leading to delays in the delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians and hindering the transport of vital grain shipments to countries in the Global South, warned British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
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In a statement from Downing Street, it was highlighted that British intelligence has gathered information about Russia's increasing tendency to launch indiscriminate attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure on the Black Sea.
These attacks have also damaged cargo ships transporting grain. Between 5th and 14th October, at least four such ships were targeted and likely sustained damage.
Attacks coincide with harvest season
It was noted that the increase in attacks coincides with the harvest season in Ukraine, a primary supplier of agricultural products crucial for global food security.
It is believed that these attacks have delayed the departure from Ukraine of the ship MV Shui Spirit, which is carrying vegetable oil for the World Food Programme intended for Palestine. Additionally, other ships have been damaged, including those transporting grain to Egypt, as well as two ships carrying maize, and vessels with deliveries organised by the World Food Programme for southern Africa.
"Putin endangers global food security"
Russia's senseless attacks on ports in the Black Sea reveal that Putin is willing to jeopardise global food security in an effort to force Ukraine to capitulate. In doing so, he affects millions of vulnerable people in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East as he seeks to gain the upper hand in his ruthless war, declared Starmer.
In recent weeks, reports have emerged suggesting that the Kremlin has resorted to seeking soldiers from North Korea to bolster its self-destructive war machine, a humiliating and desperate action. Now, it is intensifying attacks on Ukrainian areas that supply the Global South with essential foodstuffs.
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