European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen denounces Russia’s recent suspension of a Black Sea grain export deal as a “cynical move,” and affirms the EU’s commitment to ensuring food security for impoverished nations.
Following Moscow’s claim that Ukraine attacked the Crimean Bridge, Russia swiftly announced the termination of its participation in the UN-brokered agreement, causing a surge in grain and oilseed prices. EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell criticizes Russia’s decision as unjustified and accuses them of using food as a weapon in the conflict with Ukraine.
With Ukraine being a significant global producer of grains and oilseeds, the halt in exports exacerbates the already soaring food prices, which reached record highs during the war.
The deal, established in July 2022, played a crucial role in stabilizing prices and alleviating the global food crisis.
The EU remains resolute in its efforts to address this crisis and provide assistance to affected regions.