Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan met in Sochi, Russia, on September 4, 2023, to discuss various matters, including the Black Sea grain deal. This agreement had previously facilitated the export of Ukraine’s grain to global markets, thereby alleviating a global food crisis. However, Russia withdrew from the deal in July, citing obstacles faced by its own food and fertilizer exports and the inadequate distribution of Ukrainian grain to countries in need.
During the meeting, Erdogan urged Putin to reconsider the deal, emphasizing its importance in addressing the grain corridor issue and its potential impact on African countries. Putin expressed openness to negotiations on the matter, highlighting the significance of finding a resolution. The deal had initially aimed to streamline the transport of grain from Ukraine to global markets via the Black Sea, with the goal of mitigating the food crisis exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February of the previous year.
Prior to the meeting, Ukrainian officials reported a Russian air attack on one of their major grain exporting ports. However, Romania denied the Ukrainian statement regarding Russian drones falling and detonating on their territory. In an attempt to revive the grain deal, the United Nations proposed a set of concrete proposals to Russia, and Putin stated that Russia would consider rejoining the agreement if the West fulfilled a separate memorandum to facilitate Russian food and fertilizer exports.
One of Moscow’s key demands is for the Russian Agricultural Bank to regain access to the SWIFT international payments system, from which it was cut off in June 2022 following sanctions imposed in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Although Western sanctions do not directly affect Russian food and fertilizer exports, limitations on payments, logistics, and insurance have impeded shipments. The Russian foreign ministry has highlighted the need for the implementation of promised measures under the agreement.
Since its withdrawal from the deal, Russia has blockaded Ukrainian Black Sea ports and indicated a willingness to treat all vessels as potential military targets. In response, Ukraine has established a “humanitarian corridor” along the western Black Sea coast to facilitate the export of produce. Additionally, Russia has been discussing a proposal by Putin to supply up to 1 million tons of Russian grain to Turkey at reduced prices, enabling its processing in Turkish plants and subsequent shipment to countries most in need.
In conclusion, the meeting between Putin and Erdogan addressed the pressing issues surrounding the Black Sea grain deal and its impact on global food security. Both leaders expressed a willingness to negotiate and find a viable solution to ensure the smooth transport of grain to countries in need.
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