Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Israel of allowing the arrival of a vessel carrying grain allegedly stolen by Russia from occupied Ukrainian territory, warning that Ukraine is preparing sanctions against those involved in the trade.
In a statement on April 28, Zelenskyy said the shipment, which he claimed is linked to Russian-controlled areas in Ukraine, has reached an Israeli port and is preparing to unload, arguing that such activity cannot be considered legitimate business.
He also said Israeli authorities should be aware of vessels entering their ports and the nature of their cargo.
“In any normal country, purchasing stolen goods is an act that entails legal liability. This applies, in particular, to grain stolen by Russia. Another vessel carrying such grain has arrived at a port in Israel and is preparing to unload,” Zelesnkyy said.
Zelenskyy Accuses Israel Over Grain Shipments, Flags Possible Sanctions Action
He further stated that Russia is systematically exporting grain taken from temporarily occupied Ukrainian regions through networks linked to occupying forces, adding that Ukraine has already pursued diplomatic channels to stop such incidents.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is now preparing a sanctions package targeting individuals, companies, and entities involved in transporting and profiting from the alleged scheme, while also coordinating with European partners to extend sanctions coverage.
He noted that Ukraine expects respect for its sovereignty and adherence to international law, warning that actions undermining bilateral relations would not be acceptable.
Also Read: Zelenskyy Warns Iran War Could Strengthen Russia Amid Budget Strains
Israel Ambassador Summoned
This comes after Ukraine summoned Israel’s ambassador to Kyiv in protest over the arrival in Haifa of a Russian vessel allegedly carrying stolen Ukrainian grain.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on April 27 that the trade risked undermining otherwise beneficial relations between Ukraine and Israel and criticized what he described as an inadequate response to Ukraine’s earlier objections over a previous vessel that delivered similar cargo to Haifa.
He also warned Israel against accepting the latest shipment, saying such actions could harm bilateral relations.
Also Read: Zelenskyy Outlines Three Indicators That Show Putin Wants to Continue With War
“Now that another such vessel has arrived in Haifa, we once again warn Israel against accepting the stolen grain and harming our relations,” Sybiha said.
In response, Israel’s ambassador to Kyiv, Gideon Sa’ar, pushed back against the summons, saying diplomatic relations should not be conducted through social media.
He also dismissed the allegations as unproven and said Ukraine had not submitted a request for legal assistance before raising the matter publicly.
