Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, and the United Nations discussed proposals put forth by the UN today, Thursday, to extend the agreement allowing the export of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea. Moscow threatens to withdraw from it on May 18 due to obstacles hindering its grain and fertilizer exports. The meeting, held in Istanbul, concluded without Russian approval for the extension of the agreement.
The meeting discussed the latest proposals, including resuming the operation of the Togliatti-Odessa pipeline for ammonia transportation, extending the agreement for a longer period, and making improvements to the Joint Coordination Center to stabilize operations and exports, as well as other issues raised by the parties, according to a statement from the United Nations.
The parties presented their views and agreed to continue discussions on these matters. The Turkish Ministry of Defense stated that "the discussions have made progress regarding the agreement, and the parties have agreed to continue the four-party technical meetings."
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov confirmed that "discussions will continue online." Earlier today, the Kremlin reported that "Russian President Vladimir Putin could speak to his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdoğan without prior arrangement if necessary regarding the extension of the agreement," which has not yet occurred.
