According to a report by The Times Of Israel on April 29, 2026, tensions between Ukraine and Israel have escalated following allegations over the handling of grain reportedly taken from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories and later sold in Israel. The issue has developed into a wider diplomatic dispute, with both governments exchanging sharp statements and legal requests.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, in a post on X, said Kyiv intends to take strong action against what it describes as Russia’s global network involved in illicit grain trading. He warned that Ukraine would step up efforts internationally, stating, “We will go after Russia’s shadow grain fleet and its enablers across all geographies,” highlighting plans to target the wider supply chain linked to the alleged theft.
Sybiha further stressed that Ukraine would pursue coordinated international pressure against those involved. He said Ukraine will initiate “new sanctions in the EU, G7, and other jurisdictions on everyone involved in this theft and illegal trade.” He also issued a broader warning, stating, “We warn all entities and nations that we will react strongly to any theft of our grain,” signaling a firm diplomatic stance.
In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed that Israel had received a formal request from Ukraine seeking legal assistance regarding a vessel reportedly waiting to dock in Haifa. The ship is suspected of carrying grain taken from occupied Ukrainian territory by Russia.
Sa’ar also criticized the timing and method of Ukraine’s communication, noting that the request arrived “late last night” after public statements were already made. He added, “One would expect the submission of a legal request before Tweeting. You chose differently, for your own reasons.” The exchange highlights growing friction as both sides continue to address the allegations through diplomatic channels…Read_More…