Russia may launch naval blockade of Ukraine after withdrawing from grain initiative – British intelligence

11:38, 26.07.2023 1 min read

After Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the Russian Black Sea Fleet has altered its posture, preparing for a blockade of Ukraine, the British Ministry of Defense said, citing intelligence data.

"The modern corvette Sergey Kotov, has deployed to the southern Black Sea, patrolling the shipping lane between the Bosphorus and Odesa. There is a realistic possibility that it will form part of a task group to intercept commercial vessels Russia believes are heading to Ukraine," the intelligence said on Twitter.

It is noted that the Black Sea Grain Initiative moderated the involvement of the Black Sea in the war. Now, there is the potential for the intensity and scope of violence in the area to increase.