The UN Secretary‑General’s representative, Stephane Dujarric, confirmed that the grain agreement has been extended, but he did not disclose a precise timeline. There is no further information available at this time.
In Istanbul on July 22, 2022, a four‑party accord was forged among Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Nations to establish a corridor for exporting Ukrainian agricultural products via the Black Sea. Recent statements from Turkish leadership indicated that the extension would be pursed, and Ukrainian authorities have indicated the extension would cover another 120 days, allowing Ukraine to continue shipping grain from its three major port terminals.
The Russian Foreign Ministry, however, did not corroborate these reports. A ministry spokesperson stated that Russia has agreed to extend the grain agreement for a period of 60 days. The First Deputy Permanent Representative of Russia to the United Nations echoed this stance, noting that claims about extensions beyond 60 days are misinterpretations. Additionally, a post on the Russian envoy to the UN’s Telegram channel relayed a memorandum suggesting that a longer extension could be possible under certain conditions, such as linking Rosselkhozbank to the SWIFT financial network and expanding access for Russian food and fertilizers to global markets.
Prior to this, the United Nations had approved an extension of the grain deal.
This situation underscores ongoing questions about the duration of the extension, the specific terms that may accompany any longer extension, and how participating nations will continue to coordinate shipments, safety assurances, and economic impacts for global food supplies. Analysts note that the core objective remains to ensure steady nutriitional flows from Black Sea routes while balancing the geopolitical interests of involved states. Stakeholders in Kyiv, Moscow, Ankara, and international bodies continue to monitor developments closely, as any new extensions or changes could affect global grain markets, shipping insurance, and price stability across North America and other importing regions.
In summary, the extension appears to be a topic of active negotiation with statements varying by country and institution. International observers anticipate updates as the parties align on operational details, verification mechanisms, and the broader strategic aims of safeguarding food security in the region and beyond.