The next stage of Putin's bloody war is closing trade in the Black Sea, prompting economic disruption, increased poverty and more disaster-driven migration.
The initiative was originally brokered in August 2022 by Turkey between Russia and Ukraine. Various explanations have been given as to the Russian decision to pull the plug on the deal, ranging from retaliation for recent claimed Ukrainian attacks on the Kerch Bridge, to Russian annoyance with Turkey’s decision to release key Azovstal commanders to Ukraine, Turkey’s supply of drones and armaments to Ukraine, and it’s decision at the Vilnius summit to green light Sweden’s NATO membership.
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is ignoring requests from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to hold talks regarding the extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI), The Wall Street Journal reported on July 28, citing diplomats and analysts.
Key developments on July 22-23 Russia's latest missile attack on Odesa results in civilian casualties; damages 25 historical buildings Black Sea security to be discussed at NATO-Ukraine Council on July 26 Russia starts collecting intel on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, says military intelligence Ukraine destroys targets in Russian-occupied Crimea Russia destroys aid center in Chasiv Yar, kills 4 civilians across Donetsk Oblast within a day Russian troops bombarded Odesa on July 23, damaging the historic center and a UNESCO-listed cathedral and killing and injuring civilians. One person was killed, and 21, including four children, were injured, according to local authorities.
Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas.) in a Thursday interview called Russian President Vladimir Putin’s effort to stop grain exports from flowing out of Ukraine “disturbing,” warning of possible implications for North Africa, Europe and the United States. During an appearance on NewsNation “The Hill,” McCaul told NewsNation Chief White House Correspondent Blake Burman he’s “worried” about…