Zelensky and UAE president discuss security of Black Sea maritime routes

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone call on August 1 with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. According to Suspilne, the sides discussed how the Emirates could take part in ensuring food security, maritime route security, and the protection of people in the Black Sea region.

Zelensky thanked the UAE president for understanding the situation and supporting efforts toward peace and stronger security. According to the Ukrainian president, the leaders discussed possible UAE assistance to Ukraine in Europe, particularly in the Black Sea region, as well as bilateral projects in various fields.

“We are working to make it happen,” Zelensky said.

The call followed Russian attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea. On July 19, Russian forces launched a missile strike on the dry cargo vessel GOLDEN LEO, which was leaving the combat zone with a cargo of corn; preliminary reports said 10 people were killed. On July 25, while leaving one of the ports in Odesa region, Russian forces twice attacked a Palau-flagged civilian vessel carrying almost 2,800 tonnes of corn. On July 28, reports emerged of a strike on a Liberia-flagged civilian vessel anchored on the approaches to Odesa port.