Putin stated today that Russia will not target Ukrainian ports that have been cleared of mines and designated for the transit of grain. The Russian president made it clear in a televised interview that the current demining status should not be used as a pretext for any naval action, and he emphasized that there will be no sea-based attack launched while those ports remain usable. The message reflects a careful attempt to balance military concerns with the broader aim of ensuring that Ukrainian grain can be moved to international markets through designated routes. This stance appears focused on avoiding escalation at a moment when the global community is watching closely how grain shipments from Ukraine could proceed safely and predictably. Source: Reuters
Putin also underscored that the most favorable route for Ukrainian grain continues to be through Black Sea ports that are under Ukrainian control, notably Odessa. He argued that the choice of these locations rests with Ukraine and noted that Russia did not remove any access to these corridors. The president urged Ukraine to continue the demining process and to maintain open maritime channels, highlighting that the decision about access to the sea should be determined by Ukraine in coordination with international partners. This framing positions Russia as a reluctant participant in the broader grain logistics conversation, while pressing for a clear path that avoids indiscriminate action against maritime routes. Source: Reuters
The discussion also touched on guarantees related to safe passage for vessels and the avoidance of any conditions that would impede the free entry and transfer of foreign ships through the designated maritime corridors. Putin reiterated Russia’s assertion that it has not used its position to block Ukrainian grain shipments and suggested that criticisms labeling Moscow as a blocker are unfounded. He characterized such accusations as misinterpretations tied to the geopolitical narrative surrounding the conflict and the grain agreement, implying that foreign crews should not be held responsible for broader strategic tensions. The overall tone conveyed a commitment to peaceful transit and predictable access, while leaving room for scrutiny from international observers and shipping industry stakeholders who are monitoring the reliability of the corridors. Source: Reuters