Top US, Ukrainian diplomats discuss war, food security crisis on phone

WASHINGTON

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba discussed a range of issues on the telephone Tuesday, including war and the global food crisis, according to State Department.

Spokesman Ned Price said the conversation was a follow-up to the two diplomats' meeting in Berlin on May 15. They discussed ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the consequences of the war waged by Russia that began in February.

"The Secretary noted the global food security crisis resulting from (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin’s brutal war requires a global response, and they discussed potential means to export Ukraine’s grain to international markets," said Price.

Blinken also shared details of a $40 billion security aid package that was signed by US President Joe Biden on Saturday. It provides additional funding for security, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and countries affected by the war.

"The Secretary again underscored the United States’ strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Moscow’s aggression," added Price.

At least 3,930 civilians have been killed and 4,532 injured since Russia launched a war on Ukraine on Feb. 24. The true toll is believed to be significantly higher.

Nearly 6.6 million people have fled to other countries, while more than 7.7 million have been internally displaced, according to the UN refugee agency.

WASHINGTON

"The Secretary again underscored the United States’ strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Moscow’s aggression," added Price.

At least 3,930 civilians have been killed and 4,532 injured since Russia launched a war on Ukraine on Feb. 24. The true toll is believed to be significantly higher.

Nearly 6.6 million people have fled to other countries, while more than 7.7 million have been internally displaced, according to the UN refugee agency.