Russia's targeted shelling of the port infrastructure in Odesa, which continues for the third night in a row, as well as Russia's deliberate destruction of grain stocks intended for export, are barbaric acts that will lead to a large-scale food crisis in the world.
This was stated by EU High Representative Josep Borrell in Brussels before the start of the Council of Ministers of the EU on Foreign Affairs, reports the correspondent of Ukrinform.
"Today, of course, we will discuss the situation in Ukraine. Minister Kuleba will be with us (Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba will join via teleconference - ed.) at the moment when Russia is bombing and destroying the entire port infrastructure in Odesa and destroying grain for the third night. More than 60,000 tons of grain were burned. So, they (the Russians - ed.) not only withdrew from the grain agreement regarding the export of grain from Ukraine, but they are burning this grain," Borrell said.
He noted that these massive air attacks against the port infrastructure in Odesa cause not only civilian casualties, but also extensive destruction of grain warehouses located there. These barbaric actions of Russia will be taken into account today during the EU Council. European government officials expect to receive more information during their conversation with Ukrainian Minister Kuleba.
"What we already know is that such actions will create a big, huge food crisis in the world. This grain is not only blocked in warehouses, but destroyed. This means that there will be a shortage of food, a shortage of grain in the world," added the high representative of the EU.
According to him, European ministers together with Minister Kuleba will discuss how to continue to support Ukraine, including in the long term, which includes long-term commitments and guarantees in the field of security for Ukraine from the EU.
"This means an increase in the resources of the European Peace Fund. We presented a plan to provide financial assistance to Ukraine for the coming years, with a significant amount of money - I hope the ministers support it. I do not want to give these figures now, as I would first like to have political agreement among ministers. But it is obvious that we should be more involved in (aid for) Ukraine and have stable instruments. Because Ukraine will need support not only from month to month, but in the long term, through ongoing and structured assistance," Borrell emphasized.
As reported, Russian invaders continue barbaric shelling of Odessa and its port infrastructure. In particular, more than 60,000 tons of grain destined for export to the world market were destroyed as a result of Russian shelling.
