On October 13, prime minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, accompanied by Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Minister of infrastructure of Ukraine Oleksandr Kubrakov, arrived at the port of Odesa. Here, the delegation discussed the threat and damage that the Russian blockade of grain corridors brings to Ukraine and the food security of the world.
On July 18, Russia was supposed to extend the Grain agreements with Turkey and the UN, but didn't it. Since withdrawing from the agreement, Russia has shelled Ukrainian ports 17 times and destroyed approximately 300.000 of food intended for export. Export opportunities decreased by 40%, which prompted Ukraine to launch an alternative grain corridor. 21 vessels carrying Ukrainian grain, rapeseed, corn and other food have already passed through this corridor. However, while Russia has not laid down its arms, the threat of shelling and destruction of civilian ships remains.
Mark Rutte said his government plans to help Ukraine defend a new grain route to ease the threat of global hunger. According to minister Kubrakov, Ukraine can count on patrol ships and missiles for Patriot.
"We will help Ukraine to receive patrol ships to ensure that the grain corridor is as secure as possible," Mark Rutte.
