Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin accused Ukraine on Friday of using the grain export corridor through the Black Sea to carry out "terrorist attacks" against Russian interests, including an attack that targeted the Crimean Bridge earlier this week. This statement was made during Vershinin's briefing regarding Russia's decision to withdraw from the grain export agreement through the Black Sea.
Vershinin confirmed that Russia is working on opening new routes for grain exports following Moscow's withdrawal, noting that Moscow will do "everything it can" to protect Africa from the repercussions of its exit from the grain export agreement. He indicated that a new grain export agreement between Russia and Turkey could be concluded if Russia's demands are met. He affirmed that Moscow is ready to discuss other options regarding grain exports, adding that there are currently no negotiations taking place to find alternatives to the grain export agreement through the Black Sea.
Vershinin pointed out that his country wants to be able to inspect ships heading to Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea if necessary. He stated, "We need to make sure that the ship is not carrying anything bad, which means requesting and inspecting if necessary to ensure that it is so. I think this is completely reasonable, especially after the terrorist attacks that occurred." He added, "The maritime humanitarian corridor no longer exists, and now there may be areas with increased military risk."
Vershinin mentioned that Russia is negotiating food exports to the most in-need countries, but it has not yet signed any contracts. He emphasized its commitment to compensating these countries for the grains they will not receive now following Russia's withdrawal from the agreement. The goal of the agreement, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, was to prevent a global food crisis by allowing safe grain exports from Black Sea ports after they were disrupted by the war.
