russia stole 2 million tonnes of grain last year — Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha

During the Third Black Sea Security Conference in Chisinau, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga stated that restoring security in the Black Sea region is a key condition for stability in Europe and the world, and that the Black Sea must once again become a space of peace and freedom of navigation.

According to him, Russia has turned the Black Sea into a war zone and is systematically attacking Ukraine’s maritime infrastructure, particularly its ports, while also attempting to destabilize global food supply chains.

The minister noted that Russia continues to influence the global food market and, according to him, stole about 2 million tons of Ukrainian grain last year and sold it in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with about 40% going to Egypt. He emphasized that this is not just a matter of stolen grain, but also of financing the war.

Sybiga also stated that Ukraine’s security is impossible without maritime security and the presence of allies in the Black Sea, and that Turkey, Moldova, and Romania can play an important role in regional stability.

Separately, the minister emphasized the need to de-occupy Crimea, which Russia uses as a military base for attacks.

“The only solution is the full restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. And it all begins with Crimea and must end with Crimea. Crimea is Ukraine,” he said.

According to Sibiga, the Black Sea region has great potential, particularly for energy development and expanding the European Union’s access to the sea; however, all these opportunities are possible only if security is guaranteed and partners take decisive action.

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