The main goal of Russian attacks on Odesa is an attempt to completely isolate Ukraine's access to the Black Sea — Oleksii Danilov, NSDC Secretary
In such a way, Russia wants to prevent and neutralise international efforts to restore the functioning of the grain corridor, says Oleksii Danilov, National Security and Defence Council Secretary.
He explains that the Russians want to create artificial conditions of famine threats for African countries and increase the level of migration threats for Europe.
Russia believes that this way it will force the West to start negotiations and accept Russian terms — to resume ammonia exports and lift some sanctions and other restrictions.
"The destruction of the Ukrainian infrastructure that ensures the functioning of the grain corridor should make the world dependent on Russian grain and its logistics and capabilities. The plan is to make the world kneel and make Russia a unique grain supplier," Danilov said.
On July 17, Russia unilaterally refused to extend the grain deal with Türkiye and the UN.
Ukraine warned that one of the consequences of such actions of the Russians would be an increase in grain prices worldwide.
On July 20, Putin said that Russia was allegedly "considering" a return to the grain initiative if its conditions were met.
Putin said that Russia would return to the agreement if Western countries fulfil a number of requirements. These include:
removing Russian grain supplies from sanctions;
connecting Russian banks to SWIFT and "ending all restrictions";
restoration of the Tolyatti-Odesa ammonia pipeline;
resumption of supplies of spare parts for agricultural machinery.
Following Russia's withdrawal from the grain deal, Russian troops began a massive attack on Odesa. On the night of July 19, Russia attacked grain terminals and infrastructure in the ports of Odesa and Chornomorsk. The grain infrastructure of international and Ukrainian traders and carriers such as Kernel, Viterra, and CMA CGM Group was damaged. This infrastructure was involved in the operation of the grain corridor.
During the attack on July 21, the Russians destroyed 100 tonnes of peas and 20 tonnes of barley in the Odesa region.
Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine
