Putin seeks review of Ukraine grain deal

Russia President Vladimir Putin, has stated his willingness to reopen a treaty mediated by the United Nations that permits Ukraine to export its grain across the Black Sea.

In a speech to an economic gathering in the Far East of Russia, Putin stated that he would propose altering the terms of the agreement since they did not serve the interests of developing nations.

Putin claimed that the agreement delivered food to the European Union and Turkey rather than to underdeveloped nations whose needs he claimed were the deal’s justification.

Putin added that Russia would continue to abide by its terms in the hope that it would fulfil its original goals.

His comments raise the possibility the pact could unravel if it cannot be successfully renegotiated or might not be renewed by Moscow when it expires in late November.

The grain pact, facilitated by the United Nations and Turkey, created a protected export corridor via the Black Sea for Ukrainian foodstuffs after Kyiv lost access to its main export route when Russia attacked Ukraine via land, air and sea.

The deal was struck on July 22 for a period of four months, and Ukraine, whose ports had been blockedaded by Russia after its invasion in February, said that its provisions were being rigorously adhered to and that there was no reason to renegotiate them.

Data from the Istanbul-based coordination committee that oversees the deal’s execution shows that 30% of the total cargo, including that bound for or passing through Turkey, has been shipped to low- and lower-middle income nations.

Putin expressed dissatisfaction that a different provision of the agreement, intended to loosen limitations for Russian food exporters and shippers, was also not being carried out.