The Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, addressed fresh reports about Ukraine restarting discussions on the grain deal without Russia at the table. Kyiv appears to be expanding its dialogue with alternative partners, with Reuters reporting a Ukrainian government source indicating that Kyiv will likely meet with representatives beyond Moscow. This development highlights the delicate balance of control, participation, and direction in the negotiations that govern a crucial food-export lifeline.
Zakharova noted that Moscow has been aware of statements from several parties, including Kyiv officials, about extending the Black Sea Initiative. She emphasized that the second term of the agreement, aimed at enabling grain shipments, is nearing a deadline and a renewal decision is expected soon. Russia has consistently stressed that negotiations on this issue did not include Russian involvement, and she reiterated that Moscow was not part of any talks shaping the extension or the terms of the accord.
In her remarks, the spokesperson reminded audiences that the accords signed in Istanbul on July 22, 2022 were meant to be carried out in a coordinated manner. The objective was to address the global food crisis and provide support to vulnerable nations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America that depend on these shipments. Moscow’s emphasis has been on ensuring that any continuation of the agreement involves all signatories and reflects a shared commitment to maintaining safe corridors for grain transport while protecting the interests of producer countries and importing nations alike.
Meanwhile, Andriy Yermak, who previously led the Office of the President of Ukraine, stated that Kyiv had met all conditions agreed upon in coordination with the United Nations for the grain arrangement. He asserted that Ukraine would push for an indefinite extension, arguing that the partnership framework with the UN has fulfilled its stated objectives and that stability in grain supplies should not be bound by time limits. This position reflects Kyiv’s push to secure long-term access to export routes essential for sustaining market confidence and global food security.