A civilian cargo ship, flying the Panama flag, collided with a Russian mine in the Black Sea near Ukraine’s Danube ports, heightening the perils faced by those involved in exporting Ukrainian grain during the ongoing war. The incident occurred as the vessel was en route to collect grain, navigating stormy weather that elevated the risk from mines, according to Ukraine’s Southern Defence Forces. Two sailors were reportedly injured in the incident.
War Strategy and Economic Impact
Russia’s strategic efforts to control the crucial flow of Ukrainian grain through its ports have been a significant aspect of its war strategy. In an attempt to strengthen its financial resources amid the prolonged conflict, Ukraine established a new Black Sea shipping corridor last summer after Russia withdrew from a U.N.-brokered export agreement. This corridor facilitated the transportation of grain, metals, and other cargo to global markets, providing a boost to Ukraine’s agriculture-dependent economy.
Mine Detonation and Vessel Damage
The mine incident occurred approximately 130 kilometers southwest of Chornomorsk, near Odesa on Ukraine’s southern coast, as the ship was headed to Izmail, another port in the region, according to Ambrey maritime risk analysis company. The mine exploded at the ship’s stern, resulting in equipment and machinery failure and the loss of power. To prevent the ship from sinking, the captain reportedly navigated into shallow waters.
Ongoing Conflict and Western Aid
As the war’s future remains uncertain, with Ukraine’s key Western allies grappling to maintain support, the incident adds to the complexities of the conflict. Despite a significant deployment of Western weaponry, Ukraine’s anticipated counteroffensive last summer failed to alter the front line. The Institute for the Study of War noted in its recent assessment that the current balance in the conflict can be influenced by decisions made in the West or Russia, emphasizing the potential impact of Western aid to Ukraine.
Russian Stance and International Assistance
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov suggested that the US and European Union countries plan to continue assisting the Ukrainian government, emphasizing their commitment to containing Russia. Lavrov, in an interview with the state news agency Tass, asserted that Washington and Brussels acknowledge the Ukrainian regime’s reliance on external aid for its survival, framing their assistance as a strategy to undermine Russia at the expense of Ukrainians and their lives.
SOURCE: Ref Image from DW
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