U.S. Ambassador: Russia tries to choke Ukraine's economy, slow down food flows

United States Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink has accused Russia of trying to choke the Ukrainian economy and slow down the flow of food instead of complying with the terms of the grain corridor.

U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink made the statement via Twitter, Ukrinform reports.

"Right now, more than 50 ships are waiting at the Bosphorus for approval to go to Ukrainian ports to load grain that will feed those who need it.  Russia is trying to choke Ukraine’s economy and slow the flow of food instead of abiding by the terms of its agreement," the ambassador said.

The U.S. diplomat added that last month, vital wheat was transported to Yemen, a shipment funded by USAID, Spain, and France, in support of President Zelensky's Grain from Ukraine initiative.

"This grain will feed 4 million people, showing how the Black Sea Grain Initiative enables Ukraine’s farmers to feed the world," Brink emphasized.

As Ukrinform reported, on April 17, 2023, Russia blocked for the second time the inspection of ships in the territorial waters of Türkiye sailing through the "grain corridor."

On March 18, 2023, Ukraine, the United Nations, and Türkiye agreed to extend for 120 days the Initiative on the Safe Transportation of Grain and Foodstuffs from Ukrainian ports.