Business · India Bureau
Ukraine's Zelenskiy says Russia unwilling to halt grain corridor attacks
As Moscow and Kyiv escalate accusations over strikes on food export vessels, Ukraine's president signals little prospect for a ceasefire agreement protecting critical agricultural shipments during the ongoing conflict.
LSN India ·
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has stated that Russia shows no willingness to negotiate a ceasefire protecting grain exports, amid intensifying hostilities targeting commercial vessels in key shipping corridors. The assertion underscores deepening tensions between the two warring nations over access to critical food supply routes that have global repercussions.
Both Moscow and Kyiv, which together account for a significant share of international grain exports, have levelled reciprocal allegations of launching coordinated attacks on cargo ships transporting agricultural products. The attacks have disrupted food flows to markets worldwide, raising concerns about supply chain stability and global food security.
Ukraine has sought international intervention to establish safe passages for grain shipments, viewing such corridors as essential to its economy and global food availability. Russia has dismissed proposals for protected shipping lanes, with Zelenskiy's comments suggesting negotiations remain deadlocked on this critical issue.
The conflict has already disrupted millions of tonnes of grain exports from both nations, affecting food prices and availability across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Analysts warn that prolonged disruptions to agricultural exports from the region could exacerbate food inflation and supply shortages in developing economies dependent on these imports.