Monday, May 29, 2023

Russia bombs port at Odessa

A Russian drone attack overnight damaged some infrastructure in Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa, which is key for its grain exports, reported Reuters news agency.

"A fire broke out in the port infrastructure of Odesa as a result of the hit. It was quickly extinguished. Information on the extent of the damage is being updated," Ukraine’s military's southern command said on Facebook.

The military did not specify whether the damage at the port threatened grain exports. It is only through ports in the Odessa region that Ukraine can export grain and other food items as part of an initiative on grain.

There are only three ports cleared to export grain from the Ukraine under a deal brokered by the United Nations.The Russians have effectively shut down one of them by failing to provide inspectors to ensure incoming ships are not bearing arms.