Russia suspends participation in the “grain deal”

The decision was made due to drone attacks on ships in Sevastopol, in Russian-occupied Crimea, which had previously been announced by the occupier-appointed local governor.

According to the version of the Russian ministry, the ships involved in the security measures of the “grain corridor” were attacked.

The Russian Foreign Ministry also issued a statement on withdrawing from the “grain deal”, accusing Ukraine of a “broad strike” with drones on the ships and infrastructure of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Sevastopol.

“Due to the actions of the Ukrainian armed forces led by British specialists, the Russian side cannot guarantee the safety of civilian dry cargo ships participating in the Black Sea initiative and from today suspends its implementation for an indefinite period”, the ministry said this in a foreign affairs statement.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called on all countries to demand that Russia put an end to the “hunger games” and return to fulfill its obligations.

The “grain deal” between Russia and Ukraine ended on July 22 through the mediation of the UN and Turkey. The first ship under the agreement left the port of Odessa on 1 August.

Ukraine is one of the largest wheat exporters in the world. Due to the Russian military invasion, millions of tons of food have accumulated in the ports of the Black Sea.

The UN has warned of the risk of famine especially in poor countries of Africa and Asia.