The latest remarks from a senior United Nations official shed light on the evolving logistics framework supporting grain movements from the Ukrainian ports. In a briefing, the deputy representative stressed that the joint coordination center in Turkey has granted clearance for additional ships to enter the corridor that currently runs from Ukrainian ports toward the Black Sea. This marks a renewal of operational capacity since the pause that began on 4 May, signaling renewed momentum in the coordination of maritime traffic and the careful monitoring of cargo destined for global markets. The spokesman pointed out that the verification and routing process was completed for new vessels, underlining that the approval signifies a functional reopening of certain channels under the safeguard regime established to manage risk and verify safety in the corridor. (Attribution: TASS)
“The center has allowed new ships to participate in the Black Sea operation for the first time since 4 May. The team today sanctioned three additional vessels to Odessa and Chornomorsk,” the official noted. This update comes as observers track the flow of grain-related shipments, with the recognized ports serving as critical nodes for unloading, storage, and onward distribution. While the operation resumes incremental capacity, officials reiterate the necessity of rigorous checks and transparent reporting to sustain confidence among port authorities, shippers, insurers, and maritime service providers. (Attribution: TASS)
According to the spokesperson, three more ships have departed from Ukrainian ports as of the latest schedule, and two of these are undergoing inspections in Istanbul before continuing their journeys. The call from the coordinating team emphasizes that all three participating ports should remain engaged in the transit process to maximize throughput, ensure timely delivery, and adapt to the evolving needs of the market. The aim is to keep the corridor fully operational while maintaining safety, compliance, and coordination with naval and port authorities. Observers stress that adherence to agreed procedures, ongoing verification, and cooperative diplomacy between involved countries are essential to sustaining the initiative over the longer term. (Attribution: TASS)
Separately, a notification from the Russian side has outlined five prerequisites it believes are indispensable for the continuation of the grain agreement beyond mid-July. The ministry referred to the need for reestablishing formal access to the SWIFT financial messaging system for a major state agricultural bank, restoring the supply chain for spare parts and equipment integral to port and railway operations, unblocking transport logistics and insurance mechanisms, reviving the ammonia pipeline linking Togliatti and Odessa, and lifting restrictions on the assets of corporate entities connected to Russia. Analysts note that meeting these conditions would influence the viability of the broader corridor, yet many in the international community stress the importance of preserving humanitarian safeguards while pursuing practical, transparent negotiations. (Attribution: Russian Foreign Ministry)