Russia sinks even lower

Just hours after agreeing a grain export deal with Ukraine, Russia targeted missiles at their main port, Odesa.

Foul play

As if anyone could start questioning Russia’s motives more, they’ve gone and made it possible. Everyone thought there was a breakthrough when representatives from the UN, Turkey, Russia, and Ukraine signed an agreement to reopen three Ukrainian ports, securing a vital sea corridor for grains and other food exports.

A day later, the picture returned to its bleak former self. Great. Russia undertook one of its largest attacks on the city of Odesa since the outbreak of the conflict, targeting the ports with four missiles – two of which landed a direct hit.  

Untrustworthy

Outrage has been widespread since the incident. “The ink has not had time to dry out,” tweeted Ukrainian politician Mykhailo Podolyak, “yet there are two vile provocations: attack on a seaport in Odesa and a statement by Russia’s Defense Ministry that Ukraine ports are “dangerous for shipping.”

While the success of the initial deal had been celebrated, Russia’s latest attack has raised new doubts about its viability – which was intended to release 20 million tonnes of grain to combat famine in the developing world.

If Putin was looking to isolate Russia further from the rest of the world, this was a sure-fire way to do so. “He simply cannot be trusted,” said Rep. Adam Smith, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. And ain’t that the truth.