UN 'can't guarantee' security to ships in Black Sea as Russia terminates grain deal
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In the wake of Russia's decision to end the Black Sea "grain corridor" agreement, the United Nations (UN) has stated that it cannot offer security assurances to ships navigating the war-torn region.
During a press briefing, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric underscored the commitment of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to continue efforts in facilitating the transportation of Ukraine and Russia's grain and fertilizers to the global market, emphasizing the crucial importance of food security.
The deal was brokered by Turkey, UN and the two warring countries in July 2022 to ensure grain exports from Ukraine, one of the world's top grain producers.
Discussing the options for the continuation of grain exports, Dujarric indicated that the volatile situation in the area raised concerns about the safety of Russian vessels. He said, "This is a conflict zone, and it's not possible to request security guarantees from the secretary-general."
Dujarric also mentioned that the personnel at the Joint Coordination Center in İstanbul remain on hand to offer advice, reaffirming the UN's dedication to the objectives of the deal.
Regarding Russia's requests within the framework of the memorandum, Dujarric highlighted Guterres' ongoing efforts in reaching out to relevant parties. However, he pointed out that certain matters, such as banking regulations and insurance markets, fall outside the UN's purview. Dujarric added, "Our duty is to engage with other stakeholders, and we have done so and will continue to do so."
Russia "may return" to the agreement
Previously, Russia had announced its decision not to extend the Black Sea Grain Agreement, which expired on July 18.
Yesterday, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the agreement could be reinstated if all previous commitments to Russia were fully honored. He said, "We are not opposed to the agreement, especially considering its significance in the global food market and for numerous countries worldwide. We will definitely consider the possibility of returning to the agreement."
However, Putin stressed that such a move would only happen "under one condition – when all the principles previously agreed upon regarding Russia's participation in the agreement are fully respected, without any exceptions."
In a written statement, Russia's Ministry of Defense announced that vessels heading to Ukrainian ports from the Black Sea would now be regarded as potential carriers of military cargo. The statement further clarified that such ships' countries would be considered as supporting the Kiev regime in the Ukrainian conflict. Additionally, specific areas in the northwest and southeast of the Black Sea, situated in international waters, have been temporarily designated as hazardous for navigation.
The grain deal
The grain deal, which aimed to facilitate food exports from Ukraine, was initially concluded in July 2022 and has been extended three times since then.
In order to prevent arms smuggling through foodstuff shipments, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, and the UN established the Joint Coordination Center in İstanbul, responsible for inspecting grain-carrying vessels.
Throughout the duration of the agreement, Ukraine successfully exported over 32.8 million tons of grain, with 10.93 million tons sent to Asia and 12.37 million tons to Western Europe. Notably, the largest importers during this period included China, Spain, Turkey, Italy, and the Netherlands. (NT/VK)