KYIV, UKRAINE – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement after the Ukrainian port city of Odesa was struck by Russian missiles less than one day after Russia and Ukraine reached an agreement to allow Ukrainian grain to be shipped through the Black Sea.

“Russia’s latest attacks against the city of Odesa demonstrate Vladimir Putin’s complete disregard for human life and the rule of law — and his willingness to starve millions of people around the world by placing global food supply chains at risk. Less than twenty-four hours after Ukraine and Russia reached an agreement that would allow for more shipments of Ukrainian grain, Vladimir Putin violated the spirit of that agreement with more missile strikes. He simply cannot be trusted. We must continue to hold him accountable for his lawlessness and stand with the Ukrainian people in their courageous fight for their right to sovereignty and a democratic government.”

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