‘Don’t let Russia starve the world’: Ukraine responds to Russia’s suspension of grain agreements

A Ukrainian official has reacted strongly to Russia’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea grain deal.

Government official Oleg Nikolenko said: “Don’t let Russia starve the world”.

It comes as wheat and other wholesale food costs have risen sharply after Russia withdrew from the export deal which is designed to ensure crucial supplies flow from Ukraine.

Ukraine and Russia account for 30% of global wheat supplies.

A deal with Vladimir Putin’s government had been struck, brokered by the UN, in July to allow shipments from Ukraine.