Stolen Ukrainian grain sales: European Commission raises issue with Israel's Foreign Ministry
The European Commission has responded to reports that a vessel from Russia's shadow fleet carrying supposedly stolen Ukrainian grain was allowed to unload at the port of Haifa and has raised the issue with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel.
Source: European Pravda, citing a comment by the European Commission's foreign affairs spokesperson on 28 April
Details: The spokesperson said the EU had taken note of reports that a vessel from Russia's shadow fleet carrying allegedly stolen Ukrainian grain had been allowed to unload at the port of Haifa, despite prior contacts between Ukraine and the Israeli authorities on the matter.
He stressed that the EU condemns all actions that help finance Russia's illegal war effort and circumvent EU sanctions, adding that the issue had been raised with Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He also noted that the EU remains ready to apply targeted measures in response to such actions, including listing individuals and entities in third countries if necessary.
The European Commission added that, as demonstrated by last week's adoption of a €90 billion support loan for Ukraine and the 20th sanctions package, the EU remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine and maintaining pressure on Russia until it ends its war of aggression.
Background:
- The Panormitis vessel carrying grain that may originate from Ukraine's temporarily occupied territories recently arrived in Haifa.
- Ukraine's Foreign Ministry responded by summoning Israel's ambassador to deliver a note of protest.
- Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said that his country had not been provided with evidence to support the allegations.
- Meanwhile, Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticised Israel for accepting ships carrying grain stolen by Russia and pledged to impose sanctions on those involved.
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