Ukraine Protests Israel's Purchase of Grain from Russian-Occupied Territories

Ukraine has protested Israel's purchase of grain that Kyiv says originates from Russian-occupied territories. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that such transactions are not legitimate business and noted a vessel preparing to unload shipments at an Israeli port. He added that Israeli authorities must be aware of arriving ships and their cargo.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry summoned the Israeli ambassador and delivered a note of protest. Ukraine is coordinating a sanctions package with European partners targeting those involved in the transport and profit from the grain. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Russia's illegal trade in stolen Ukrainian grain should not undermine relations between the two countries.

He noted difficulty in understanding Israel's lack of response to prior complaints.

stated that evidence for the allegations has not been provided and criticized conducting diplomacy via social media. Israel is investigating the matter and reported that one vessel has not entered the port and has not submitted documents. A statement from the Israeli Foreign Ministry indicated that Ukraine has not submitted a request for legal assistance despite claims otherwise.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry reported that a ship named Abinsk entered Haifa port earlier this month with wheat from occupied territory, was allowed to unload, and departed. Ukraine stated it alerted Israeli authorities beforehand. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhii Tykhyi said Ukraine provided extensive information and proof to Israel, noting more than two vessels are involved.

He added that similar protests have been raised with Turkey, Egypt, and Algeria. Russia controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory, including fertile agrarian regions that supply grain globally. Kyiv has accused Russia of plundering resources from these areas.

spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the matter should be resolved between Kyiv and Israel without Russian involvement. The dispute occurs as the war enters its fifth year and amid the ongoing Iran conflict, which involves Israel and the United States.

Ukraine has supported joint strikes against Iran by Israel and the United States. Sen. , stated that Israel should not engage in business involving Russian war crimes. Former Rep. , said Israel could reject future ships with a simple action.