"Russia is bombing Ukrainian ports and blocking Ukrainian grain from reaching global markets, while seeking to earn revenue by transporting its own grain through the EU. Our infrastructure must not help Russia finance its war. We must increase pressure on the aggressor and help Ukraine bring its goods to global markets," said Prime Minister Kristen Michal.
Michal intends to raise the issue at next week’s European Council meeting.
In their letter, the three leaders stress that Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian cargo ships, railways and other key trade routes are intended to weaken Ukraine’s economy. At the same time, Russia is seeking new routes for its grain exports, including via the Baltic Sea. The EU must not allow Russia to offset the economic consequences of its aggression. It must also prevent grain stolen from occupied areas of Ukraine from being exported through the EU.
To support Ukraine’s trade, the leaders call for the Solidarity Lanes between the EU and Ukraine to be strengthened. These transport links help Ukrainian goods reach global markets.
Joint letter from the three Baltic states:
