Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has raised concerns about Russia’s intensified strikes on Ukrainian Black Sea ports, which are delaying agricultural exports, including aid intended for Palestinians affected by the Israel conflict. In early October, Russian attacks hit at least four cargo ships, including one carrying 6,000 tonnes of corn.
Sir Keir criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for risking global food security in his efforts to pressure Ukraine. His remarks were made while attending a Commonwealth leaders’ meeting in Samoa.
The strikes on Ukrainian ports occurred as President Volodymyr Zelensky visited European leaders, including those in London, Paris, Rome, and Berlin. British intelligence reports indicate that Russian attacks on grain ships have escalated, coinciding with Ukraine’s harvest season.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukraine remains a key agricultural supplier. The UK’s defense officials warned of Russia’s growing “risk appetite” in targeting civilian ships, which they now see as “collateral damage.” More than 20 civilian ships have been damaged since the war began, with grain silos and port infrastructure also affected.
Ukraine, however, has successfully established a maritime corridor for grain exports after Russia withdrew from a Black Sea grain agreement last year. In the first ten days of October, Ukraine exported 962,000 tonnes of grain—double the amount compared to the same period in 2023.
Sir Keir expressed concern over the broader humanitarian impact of Russia’s “indiscriminate attacks,” which he said were affecting millions of vulnerable people across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
In related news, the UK government announced a £2.26 billion loan to Ukraine, drawn from profits of Russian assets in Europe, as part of its ongoing support for Ukraine’s defense. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated the UK’s commitment to Ukraine remains “unwavering.”