Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan are scheduled to meet in Sochi on Monday to discuss the revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Photo by Sergei Chirikov/EPA-EFE
Sept. 4 (UPI) — Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday, during which Erdogan will attempt to persuade Putin to reopen the agreement that allows the export of Ukrainian grain.
In a statement released by Turkey’s foreign ministry on Sunday, it was revealed that Erdogan’s visit to Sochi was at Putin’s invitation.
The brief statement stated, “The talks between President Erdogan and his Russian counterpart will cover current regional and global issues, as well as Turkey-Russia relations.”
This announcement comes after Russia suspended the Black Sea Grain Initiative, a trade agreement brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, which allowed the export of more than 32 million metric tons of grain and food from Ukraine. Russia alleged that Ukraine had not fulfilled promises made regarding Moscow’s sea blockade.
The agreement, established on July 27, 2022, in Istanbul, received widespread criticism when it expired.
However, just as the meeting was about to begin, Ukrainian officials accused Russia of targeting crucial port infrastructure over the weekend.
Russia launched 25 drones at Ukraine, with 22 of them being intercepted. The remaining drones hit targets in the southern Odesa region.
Serhii Bratchuk, head of the public council at the Odesa Regional Military Administration, stated on Telegram, “Unfortunately, the port infrastructure was hit, causing a fire that was promptly extinguished by firefighters. It is known that two civilians were injured and received medical assistance.”
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has consistently called for the safe export of grain and food from Ukraine. Last week, he sent Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov a letter presenting proposals to create conditions for the restoration of the grain deal.
Guterres stated during a press conference, “We believe that the Black Sea initiative has made a significant contribution to ensuring food markets align with our food security objectives.” He emphasized the need for a stable renewal of the agreement, rather than one that faces constant crises and suspensions. “We need something that works and benefits everyone,” he added.
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