Russia must end the blockade of the Black Sea, – Ursula von der Leyen

UkrAgroConsult

Russia’s withdrawal from the grain deal threatens the food security of many countries. The European Union will continue to export agri-food products from Ukraine to world markets through solidarity lanes. This was announced by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

“I am deeply concerned about Russia’s decision to suspend the Black Sea Grain Initiative, despite the efforts of the United Nations and Turkey. The risk is that it threatens the food security of many vulnerable countries around the world,” she said.

Von der Leyen emphasized that the EU will continue to work by all means to ensure food security for vulnerable populations, she added.

“As you know, we have an additional initiative – the solidarity bands. More than 45 million tons of grains, oilseeds and other products have been exported through the solidarity belts. The Black Sea Grain Initiative has added another 35 million tons,” the European Commission President added.

Von der Leyen assured that the EU will continue to export agri-food products from Ukraine to world markets through the solidarity belts.

“But it is important that the blockade of the Black Sea is lifted and that exports through the Black Sea can continue,” she concluded.

As a reminder, on July 17, the Russian dictator’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the “grain deal” had been effectively suspended. On the same day, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that the Black Sea Initiative would cease to function on July 18. Russia is withdrawing its guarantees of safety of navigation.

Tags: EU, Black Sea region, blocking ports