European Commission Contacted Israeli MFA Regarding Stolen Ukrainian Grain Ship in Haifa Port on April 28

The European Commission has responded to reports of the alleged unloading of a Russian «shadow fleet» vessel carrying grain stolen from Ukraine at the port of Haifa. In connection with this, the European Commission has contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel.

On April 28, a spokesperson for the European Commission on foreign affairs stated that the EU «took note of reports that a Russian «shadow fleet» vessel carrying stolen Ukrainian grain was allowed to unload in the port of Haifa in Israel, despite previous contacts between Ukraine and Israeli authorities on the matter.» The spokesperson emphasized that the EU «condemns all actions that help finance Russia's illegal military efforts and circumvent EU sanctions.» «We have contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel on this matter,» the spokesperson added.

The European Commission assured that the EU is ready «to apply targeted measures against such actions by listing individuals and entities in third countries, if necessary.» The statement also highlighted that «as demonstrated last week by the adoption of a 90 billion support loan for Ukraine and the 20th package of sanctions, the EU remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia until it ceases its war of aggression.»

Previously, the vessel PANORMITIS arrived at the Israeli port of Haifa with a consignment of grain that may have originated from the occupied territories of Ukraine. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reacted to this information by summoning the Israeli ambassador to hand over a note of protest. In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar stated that his country had not been provided with evidence to substantiate the accusation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Israel for accepting vessels with Ukrainian grain stolen by Russia and promised to impose sanctions on all involved.