Russia preparing for attacks on civilian ships in Black Sea, White House claims

Some 54,400 tonnes of grain were destroyed in the attacks.

US Agency for International Development administrator Samantha Power speaks during a press conference at the Port of Odesa, joined by Ukrainian minister of infrastructure Oleksandr Kubrakov, centre, and US ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink, in Odesa, Ukraine, on Tuesday (Libkos/AP)

The Russian military is preparing for possible attacks on civilian shipping vessels in the Black Sea, the White House has warned.

It comes days after Russia suspended participation in a wartime deal allowing grain to flow from Ukraine to countries around the world.