The agreement, known as the Black Sea Grain Initiative, was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July of the previous year. Russia's threat to abandon the deal stems from the unresolved obstacles it faces regarding its own grain and fertilizer shipments.

Secretary-General Guterres has emphasized the importance of preserving the Black Sea initiative while finding solutions that facilitate Russian exports. As part of the efforts to convince Russia to uphold the Black Sea grain deal, a three-year Memorandum of Understanding was signed. Under this agreement, UN officials committed to assisting Russia in its food and fertilizer exports.

Although Russian exports of food and fertilizer remain unaffected by Western sanctions imposed after the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Moscow claims that the imposition of restrictions on payments, logistics, and insurance has created barriers to their shipments.

The United Nations, along with relevant stakeholders, is working diligently to address the concerns raised by Russia and to ensure the continuity of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. These efforts aim to find a mutually beneficial solution that satisfies all parties involved and promotes the smooth flow of grain and fertilizer trade in the region.

As the situation unfolds, further negotiations and discussions will take place to reach a resolution that safeguards the interests of both Ukraine and Russia, while maintaining stability in the Black Sea region's agricultural trade sector. (ILKHA)