The Press Secretary for the President of Russia, Dmitry Peskov, provided commentary on ongoing talks about extending the grain agreement under United Nations auspices. He reaffirmed Moscow’s known stance, noting that while the pact has been extended for a two-month period, the agreed targets related to boosting the agricultural sector have not been met. He emphasized that discussions will keep moving forward as parties seek mutual assurances.
Earlier, Reuters cited a senior Ukrainian official regarding the negotiations surrounding the extension of the grain arrangement, which is set to expire on May 18. It was reported that talks involving all sides would take place on May 3 to chart the next steps and potential compromises before the current terms lapse.
Additionally, Reuters reported that Rebecca Greenspan, who leads policy work at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, is expected to travel to Moscow this week to discuss the grain deal in depth. This information was communicated by TASS, quoting Catherine Yuissa, a spokesperson for UNCTAD, as the source of the update.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism that the grain agreement could be extended beyond the May 18 deadline, signaling continued regional interest in maintaining the flow of agricultural goods and related economic stability. Observers note that the discussions remain intricate, with sensitive issues around harvests, market access, and inflation outcomes influencing the negotiating positions of all involved parties.
In summary, while Russia has signaled continued willingness to negotiate within the framework of UN-led efforts, the path to a longer-term extension remains contingent on compliance with previously stated conditions and on the practical impacts observed in the agricultural sector. The international community, including the UN and key regional partners, appears intent on sustaining the supply chain through continued dialogue and closely monitored measures.