Ukraine proposes Black Sea ceasefire on civilian targets amid food export fears

Ukraine has proposed to Russia a halt in attacks on civilian targets in the Black Sea, a move aimed at alleviating global food supply concerns following a surge in incidents involving ships and ports. The proposal was reportedly relayed through a third party, and Kyiv awaits Moscow's response.

Both nations are major players in the global agricultural market, and they have accused each other of intensifying attacks on vessels used for exports. The escalating tensions have led many shipowners to cease calls at Ukraine's key southern grain export hub of Odesa in late July, forcing Kyiv to seek alternative routes. Meanwhile, Russia was compelled to suspend operations at three terminals of its Black Sea port of Novorossiysk after a Ukrainian attack, further curtailing its grain exports.

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Kyiv authorities conveyed the proposal to suspend attacks through a third party, and are currently awaiting Russia's response.

The Black Sea grain deal, brokered by the UN and Turkey to prevent a looming food crisis after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, was not extended by Russia in 2023. Ukraine has since established an alternative maritime route, but its capacity via rail or the Danube River is limited. Turkey has expressed concern over the attacks and urged both countries to suspend operations in the Black Sea. The current de facto blockade of Black Sea ports has caused Ukrainian grain exports to plummet by 76% since August of the previous year, with the agricultural sector warning of severe economic consequences if the situation persists.

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We have heard many calls for various pauses in attacks and ceasefires. These ideas are being put forward through various channels, but we have not received any official proposals.