The European Union is urging all parties involved in the grain agreement to broaden the initiative and sustain its momentum. This stance was conveyed by Peter Stano, the EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, during recent briefings reported by TASS. The message is clear: broadening participation and keeping negotiations constructive remains a priority for EU members as global food security continues to face pressure from conflict and supply disruptions.
Stano emphasized the importance of extending the current arrangement, noting that continued negotiations between the United Nations and Turkey are central to any viable path forward. The EU signaled openness to exploring a range of solutions that could support Turkey in fulfilling its role and ensuring the grain deal remains functional for the benefit of vulnerable populations. He also touched on potential steps toward easing sanctions on Rosselkhozbank if such measures align with broader objectives and contribute to stabilizing the grain corridor, underscoring that any decision would be taken with a clear, strategic aim in mind.
On July 4, Turkish authorities signaled continued dialogue with Russia and Ukraine aimed at extending the grain deal, which is scheduled to expire on July 17. Officials in Ankara indicated a commitment to maintain a cooperative channel, stressing that the discussions would focus on practical mechanisms to keep grain shipments moving despite ongoing tensions between the involved states.
Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmitry Kuleba, appeared on a telethon the previous day and stated that Kyiv would not make concessions that would weaken its negotiating position in extending the grain agreement. The Ukrainian government reiterated its willingness to engage constructively, but laid out clear expectations regarding the terms of any extension and the protections needed for Ukrainian farmers and global food buyers alike.
Earlier remarks from the Kremlin press secretary highlighted the broader debate over the role of Rosselkhozbank and its subsidiaries in the grain corridor. Dmitry Peskov noted that Moscow has no new details to report about whether a subsidiary of the bank might regain access to the SWIFT system, a move some observers view as a potential lever in negotiations. The comments reflected Moscow’s cautious approach as it weighs the strategic implications of any extension or modification of the agreement for Russian interests.
Former international diplomat and current spokespersons have also discussed Russia’s potential responses should the grain agreement be terminated. The discourse emphasizes the layered nature of the talks, which involve humanitarian considerations, financial sanctions, and the broader geopolitical context that shapes how different parties assess risks and opportunities tied to grain exports and regional stability.