US Condemns Russian Drone Attacks on Ukrainian Ports, Urges Return to Black Sea Grain Initiative
Washington DC [US], August 17 (ANI): The United States has strongly condemned the recent series of drone attacks carried out by Russia on Ukrainian ports in Odesa, labeling them as unacceptable. In response, the US government has called for an immediate return to the Black Sea Grain initiative.
The State Department expressed its concerns over the Russian President’s apparent lack of regard for global food security, emphasizing that these attacks will only exacerbate the ongoing global food crisis. Multiple Russian drones were reported to have attacked warehouses and granaries in a Ukrainian port on the Danube, near the Romanian border. This is in addition to previous attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure in Odesa, Reni, and Izmail, as revealed by US Deputy Press Secretary Vedant Patel during a state briefing.
According to Patel, the aggression displayed by Moscow showcases its intention to impede the flow of grain and foodstuffs to vulnerable populations worldwide, which is wholly unacceptable. He further criticized Russian President Putin for his indifference towards global food security, stating that such actions directly harm Ukrainian farmers and jeopardize the well-being of those most at risk of food insecurity. The attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure have resulted in extensive destruction, causing irreparable damage to Ukraine’s grain reserves, destined for global markets. Consequently, this will further exacerbate the global food crisis and contribute to soaring food prices.
The US government highlighted the stark contrast between its Ukrainian partners, who are actively working towards inspiring the world, and Russia, whose weaponization of food is effectively starving it. Patel underlined the fact that Ukraine, historically known as a vital global breadbasket, has already lost a quarter of its arable land due to Russia’s illegal war.
These recent escalations in aggression have occurred following Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain initiative in July. The agreement had previously allowed Ukraine to export grain from its Black Sea ports, even during the ongoing armed conflict, in an effort to mitigate the global food crisis.
The consequences of Russia’s actions extend far beyond the borders of Ukraine, adversely affecting food security worldwide. As tensions between the two countries continue to rise, it is crucial for both sides to find a diplomatic resolution and prioritize the well-being of vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the United States firmly condemns Russia’s drone attacks on Ukrainian ports and urges Moscow to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain initiative. The international community must work together to address the global food crisis and ensure the availability of essential resources to all those in need.
