Sybiha and Egypt's foreign minister discuss Black Sea security situation

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he discussed the security situation in the Black Sea with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, during a phone call. Sybiha announced this on social media.

According to the minister, he briefed his Egyptian colleague on the latest battlefield developments as well as Ukraine's ongoing efforts to reach a lasting and comprehensive peace. The two officials focused in particular on the Black Sea security situation and its consequences for freedom of navigation and global food security. Sybiha stressed that Ukraine remains committed to ensuring reliable food supplies to countries around the world.

Sybiha also said that during the call, the two ministers exchanged views on the broader regional situation and developments in the Middle East.

Situation in Ukraine's ports

According to earlier reports, Ukraine's sea ports handled more than 42 million tonnes of cargo in the first half of 2026, despite Russian attacks that intensified notably in July. However, on 23 July, ships temporarily stopped entering Ukrainian ports because of the intensity of Russian strikes.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Russia is trying to completely block the maritime corridor in the Black Sea, though several vessels currently continue to enter and leave Odesa's ports each day.

It was also reported that Ukraine's ambassador in Ankara was summoned to Turkey's Foreign Ministry following attacks on two Turkish-operated vessels in the Black Sea.