Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Monday that the agreement permitting Ukraine to export grain safely through the Black Sea will not be restored until the West meets Moscow’s demands. Putin’s remarks have dashed hopes of reviving the deal, which is crucial for global food supplies. Russia refused to extend the agreement in July, citing unmet promises regarding the removal of obstacles to its own agricultural exports. Despite dismissals from Ukraine and its allies, Putin reiterated these complaints and suggested that Russia could return to the deal if its demands were met. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also expressed hope for a breakthrough and revealed that Turkey and the U.N. have put together proposals to unblock the issue. This negotiation holds significant importance as Ukraine and Russia are major suppliers of wheat, barley, and sunflower oil relied upon by developing nations. Failure to revive the agreement could have “drastic impacts” on countries like Somalia and Egypt that heavily depend on Black Sea grain. Putin, possibly in an attempt to address criticism, announced that Russia was close to finalizing an agreement to provide free grain to six African countries. He also promised to ship 1 million metric tons of cheap grain to Turkey for processing and delivery to poorer countries. In addition to withdrawing from the grain deal, Russia has launched attacks on the Odesa region, where Ukraine’s main Black Sea port is located. The motives behind Russia’s control over Ukraine’s Black Sea exports may involve using it as a bargaining chip to reduce Western economic sanctions.
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