According to research by NDR, Russia plans to export a total of 1.8 million tons of grain from the occupied territories of Ukraine. As evidenced by the evaluation of ship data, satellite images and Russian documents, apparently one million tons have already been shipped through seaports in the annexed Crimean peninsula. Experts assessed the expropriation of the harvest as a possible violation of international law.
According to NDR research, about 20 ships have left the Crimean port of Sevastopol loaded with wheat and other grains since the start of the war in February this year. Most transports go to Syria, Russia or Turkey. The Russian freighters would switch off their tracking equipment before calling at Crimea ports – but the transport ships’ route could be traced with satellite images, ship observer images and transponder data.
Occupiers confiscate grain from fleeing farmers
According to the NDR, Ukrainian agricultural entrepreneurs said Russia is confiscating grain left behind by farmers fleeing the occupied territories. Other farmers would be expropriated or forced to sell their grain at dumping prices.
“Logistics arranged for future theft”
Cargo lists viewed by the journalists regarding loading dates and quantities, including for future voyages, suggested that “the Russian occupier has apparently already arranged logistics for the future theft of grain,” the NDR reports. At current world market prices, Russia could generate about $600 million from illegal exports.
International lawyer: Grain coup could be a war crime
The NDR quotes international law expert Paulina Starski of the University of Freiburg: According to her, the illegal appropriation of grain on a large scale, which is arbitrary and not covered by military necessity, could be a war crime.
Russia: Ukrainian wheat “inferior” – not necessary
Asked by the NDR, the Russian embassy said it is “undisputed that the Russian Federation not only provides for its own grain needs, but also responds to export requests from all parts of the world”. However, Russia does not need Ukrainian wheat, mainly because it is “inferior in quality to the Russian product”. According to the NDR, the embassies of Syria and Turkey remained silent when asked.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
