**Ukraine to Seek EU Sanctions Against Bangladesh Over Russia-Stolen Grain Trade**
In a move aimed at stopping the trade of stolen Ukrainian grain, Ukraine’s ambassador to India has announced plans to request European Union sanctions against Bangladeshi entities. The decision comes after Bangladesh failed to respond to Ukrainian diplomatic appeals to stop the trade.
According to Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ukraine’s ambassador to India, Bangladesh had been importing wheat allegedly stolen from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories. Ukrainian intelligence showed that entities in Russia mask grain obtained from occupied Ukrainian territories by mixing it with Russian wheat before shipping it to other countries.
Ukraine has suffered significant losses due to Russia’s full-scale invasion, including $80 billion in agricultural sector losses. The country’s ambassador to India described the grain trade as “a crime” and vowed to share an investigation with EU colleagues, asking them to take appropriate measures.
**The Complex Issue of Stolen Ukrainian Grain**
The issue of stolen Ukrainian grain is complex and involves several countries. Russian forces have seized millions of tons of Ukrainian grain from occupied areas, with at least 180,000 tons looted through the port of Mariupol alone. Ukraine has been trying to stop the trade for years, but Bangladeshi authorities have so far refused to take action.
Ukraine’s agricultural sector has suffered significantly due to Russia’s invasion, and the country is seeking EU support in stopping the grain trade. The issue highlights the need for international cooperation to prevent such crimes and support countries affected by conflict.
**Background: Ukraine-Russia Conflict**
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia began in 2014 when Russia first invaded Ukraine. The full-scale invasion launched in 2022 has had devastating consequences, including significant losses for Ukraine’s agricultural sector.
In response to the conflict, Ukraine has been seeking international support to stop the trade of stolen Ukrainian grain. The EU has been a key player in this effort, and Ukraine is now seeking sanctions against Bangladeshi entities involved in the trade.
**Reaction from Bangladesh**
Bangladesh’s Food Ministry has denied any involvement in the grain trade, stating that they banned grain deliveries originating from occupied Ukrainian territory. However, Ukrainian authorities maintain that the country is still importing stolen Ukrainian grain.
The issue highlights the need for international cooperation to prevent such crimes and support countries affected by conflict.
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