In the waters of the Odesa region, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has detained a foreign cargo vessel and its captain for their involvement in illegally exporting Ukrainian grain from occupied Crimea. According to the investigation, the ship was operating under the flag of a Central African country, fulfilling orders from Russia to transport looted Ukrainian produce.
Illegal Export Operation Details
Throughout 2023-2024, the vessel regularly docked at the Sevastopol seaport to load Ukrainian grain stolen from the occupied territories. Subsequently, the cargo was transported to the Middle East for sale to benefit the aggressor country. To evade detection, the captain intermittently disabled the vessel’s GPS tracker and falsified route and stop data in the ship’s log.
Punishment for Collaboration
The captain of the foreign vessel faces up to 5 years in prison for his role in these illicit activities. Ukrainian law strictly imposes severe penalties for collaboration with occupiers and aiding in the export of plundered property from Ukrainian territories.
Context of Russian Aggression
This detention is part of Ukraine’s broader efforts to combat Russian aggression ongoing since 2014. The illegal exploitation of Ukrainian resources, violations of international law, and crimes against humanity are integral aspects of Russia’s extensive aggression, imposing significant economic and humanitarian consequences on Ukraine.
The SBU continues its active efforts to expose and prevent such crimes, safeguarding Ukrainian national interests and assets. International cooperation and pressure from the global community remain crucial in countering unlawful actions perpetrated by the Russian Federation.
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