Russia uses criminal tactic to weaponize food - Rinkevics

RIGA - Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the latest air strikes on the Odesa region, including the port, are yet another evidence of Russia's criminal tactics aimed at weaponizing food, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics tweeted on Tuesday. 

The Latvian president added that all responsibility for the consequences of these activities lies with Russia.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday that millions of people suffering from hunger will "pay the price" for Russia's decision to withdraw from the international "grain deal" that guaranteed Ukrainian grain exports across the Black Sea.

The UN chief deeply regretted Russia's decision, but added that it would not stop the UN's efforts to ensure unhindered access to world markets for food and fertilizers from Ukraine and Russia.

Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov said Russia was withdrawing from the international agreement that allowed the export of grain from Ukraine via the Black Sea. The agreement, which has been extended several times, expired on Monday, July 17.

Russia launched air attacks on southern and eastern Ukraine overnight on Tuesday, using Shahed drones.