Andriy Sybiha: Russia has attacked 31 merchant ships since the beginning of July, turning the Black Sea into a zone of fear

Andriy Sybiha, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, stated that Russia is deliberately attacking civilian merchant vessels, aiming to turn the Black Sea into a zone of destabilization and fear. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

Sybiha presented alarming statistics: since the beginning of July alone, Russian forces have struck 31 merchant ships. According to the head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, these actions are a direct blow to freedom of navigation and the food security of millions of people in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Coordination with the European Union and new sanctions

These statements were made during telephone talks between Sybiha and the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. The parties discussed the escalation of the situation in the Black Sea basin and coordinated further actions.

The Ukrainian diplomat emphasized that each new attack on civilian shipping must be met with an even tougher sanctions response from the international community. During the conversation, Sybiha thanked the European Union for maintaining pressure on Russia and reaching an agreement on the 21st package of sanctions against the Russian Federation.

The parties also discussed preparations for all possible scenarios. The Minister noted that Ukraine urgently needs EU support to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the "Solidarity Lanes" and to increase the capacity of the Danube corridor.

Threat to global food security

Recently, Russia has intensified strikes on port infrastructure and civilian vessels in the Black Sea. Russian troops have attacked cargo ships and completely blocked movement through the Ukrainian sea corridor. This creates a serious threat to international shipping and could lead to global hunger for millions of families.

In particular, on the night of July 22, the aggressor struck the bulk carrier "Golden Rose." To save the crew, the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine conducted a special operation. Due to the threat to food security, Ukraine will initiate an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.