The maritime conflict between Russia and Ukraine has intensified in recent weeks, with both sides engaging in a cat-and-mouse game of attacks and counter-attacks in the Black Sea. Russia has been targeting ships that utilize the corridor, which is intended to facilitate the safe passage of international vessels in and out of Ukraine. In response, Ukraine has launched its own offensive operations against ships in the Sea of Azov, aiming to disrupt the supply lines to Russian-occupied Crimea.
Our correspondent, Paul Adams, was granted rare access to the Ukrainian Navy in the Black Sea, albeit with the condition that he would not disclose their precise location. As we embark on a patrol with the Ukrainian Navy, it becomes apparent that the waters are becoming increasingly treacherous due to the heightened Russian aggression. The sailors are constantly on high alert, firing their guns every day to prepare for potential attacks.
Despite the Ukrainian Navy's best efforts to protect its ships, it is struggling to prevent Russia from attacking civilian vessels. The attacks are intensifying, and it is a major concern. Ukraine is one of the world's largest grain exporters, and the war is disrupting the supply chain. The country's grain exporters are worried that the summer harvest will be severely impacted by Russia's attacks, which are coming at the worst possible time.
