Moscow [Russia], April 26:Moscow has threatened to end an international agreement that enables the export of Ukrainian grain three and a half weeks before the deal expires. "Terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime threaten a renewed extension of the "grain deal" after 18 May," the Russian Defence Ministry announced on Monday evening.
Russia, which launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine 14 months ago, accused its neighbour of using drones to attack the Russian Black Sea Fleet base in March and April. The fleet is stationed on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow. Kyiv did not immediately respond.
Russia has repeatedly threatened to cancel the grain agreement, which was extended by 60 days in mid-March. The Kremlin criticised that the sanctions relief for Russian fertilizer exports is not being implemented sufficiently. After starting the war, Russia blocked Ukraine's Black Sea ports for months, preventing grain export and prompting fears of soaring prices or famine in some areas, as Ukraine is one of the largest grain suppliers worldwide. Last summer, the United Nations and Turkey brokered an end to the blockade by establishing the grain agreement, freeing millions of tons of grain and other foods.It allows for shipments via three Black Sea ports, with Turkey coordinating. Ukraine and Russia supplied almost a quarter of the world's grain exports before the war. The scheme is vital to preventing humanitarian crises in developing countries and keeping global food prices in check.
Source: Qatar Tribune