Israel Seizes Second Stolen Ukrainian Grain Ship

Israel accepted several Russian-flagged vessels carrying agricultural cargo allegedly stolen from occupied Ukrainian territories. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi reported the incident on April 28. Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office has sent a formal request to Israel following a decision regarding stolen cargo. According to reports from Média Arrête, the process involves transferring grain between vessels, such as the Saint Olga, to obscure its origin. Katarina Yarezko stated that these resources belong to occupied territory and requires action. The maneuver allows stolen wheat to be laundered through maritime transfers. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced that the Prosecutor General's Office has formally requested Israeli authorities to act against the vessel Panorama Mikis. The request is based on a Ukrainian court decision to seize the ship, which is allegedly transporting grain stolen by Russia. Ukraine reported that Israel has seized a second vessel containing stolen grain, noting that Israel previously preferred quiet diplomatic negotiations. The source noted that Israel has preferred quiet diplomatic negotiations over public discussions on social media regarding these issues. The first vessel, Abinsk, previously sat at anchor for several days before being allowed to discharge 44,000 tons of grain, approximately 90% of which was reportedly stolen. This development is described as a painful issue for Ukraine.