In a United Nations session, the top Russian diplomat, Sergei Lavrov, responded to a letter from Secretary-General António Guterres that outlined ideas for the grain agreement. Lavrov urged a careful assessment of the proposals and signaled Moscow’s skepticism about Western states showing real willingness to implement the deal. The exchange unfolded as delegates weighed the proposals with discernment, while also noting the need for prudence regarding Western intentions amid ongoing global food-security concerns.
Lavrov conveyed to Guterres that Western partners appeared slow to take the essential steps required for the grain agreement to operate smoothly. His remarks underscored a perceived gap between publicly voiced support and the concrete actions needed to sustain steady operations, especially in regions already contending with food insecurity and vulnerable supply chains.
Earlier in the day, the Secretary-General delivered a letter to Lavrov containing ideas designed to influence the terms of the grain accord. The contents circulated within diplomatic circles as a potential framework to address persistent obstacles and to encourage broader cooperation among exporters, importers, relief organizations, and international institutions involved in maintaining the movement of grain.
Former Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu highlighted the urgency of prolonging the grain deal, warning of a looming food crisis if the agreement were allowed to lapse. His comments stressed the pressure on regional partners who rely on reliable grain supplies to prevent shortages and price spikes affecting millions in the region and beyond.
Simultaneously, the Group of Seven (G7) nations issued a joint statement following their agriculture ministers’ meetings in Miyazaki, Japan, on April 22–23. The communique expressed broad support for both extending and expanding the grain agreement, signaling ongoing Western engagement and coordination with other stakeholders. The declaration reflected shared concern about food security, market stability, and the humanitarian consequences of any disruption to grain flows caused by geopolitical tensions or policy shifts. Observers note that progress will hinge on diplomatic dynamics, verification mechanisms, and guarantees that aid programs can reach those in need without interruption. The G7 stance aligns with efforts by international partners to maintain predictable grain shipments while pursuing reforms that could bolster resilience in global food supply chains. Analysts emphasize transparent monitoring and credible enforcement to foster trust among exporters, importers, and humanitarian agencies that rely on timely deliveries.