Spokespersons for the Russian administration have stated that discussions aimed at extending the grain agreement, which is set to expire on the 18th of May, are still in progress but have not produced any tangible outcomes yet. Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the president, reiterated that while informal contacts continue, there has not been a breakthrough or a decisive agreement that would move the process forward. The remarks underscore the uncertain nature of the negotiations and the sensitivity surrounding who, where, and when future talks might occur, as the parties weigh their respective positions and interests before committing to concrete steps.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation issued a report indicating that Moscow has no knowledge of any scheduled meeting specifically intended to negotiate or extend the grain arrangement. This statement appears to reflect a cautious posture from the Russian side, emphasizing that no formal plan has been confirmed on their end, despite the surrounding media speculation about potential sessions. The absence of official confirmation from Moscow adds to the ambiguity about the next phase of discussions and the possible timelines involved.
Meanwhile, Reuters has reported that negotiations regarding the extension are anticipated to proceed on May the 3rd, with participation expected from all involved parties. The reported scheduling signals a continued commitment from multiple stakeholders to address the terms of the agreement, even as the precise format and agenda of the discussions remain subject to final confirmations. The coverage suggests a pattern of coordinated outreach among the signatories, aiming to preserve the flow of grain shipments under the framework that has guided the arrangement to date.
Earlier, on April 30, Turkish officials provided an update indicating that representatives from Turkey, Ukraine, and Russia had reached a common understanding to engage in discussions about the extension in the coming days. This development points to an ongoing effort to build consensus among the three key players, with Turkey acting as a mediator and facilitator in the process. The statement from Ankara reflects a shared objective to maintain the continuity of grain exports through a mechanism that has become a critical link in regional logistics and global food security. The evolving diplomacy highlights the delicate balance each country seeks between national interests and the broader humanitarian and economic implications that accompany the grain agreement.