Russia is seeking to reopen discussions on the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which allows Ukrainian grain exports, amid talks with the United States on a potential ceasefire with Ukraine, Reuters reported on 24 March.
The initiative, brokered by the UN and Turkey in 2022, facilitated Ukrainian grain exports after Russia’s blockade of Ukrainian ports. The deal ended in summer 2023 when Russia withdrew, citing unfulfilled terms. Since then, Ukraine has relied on alternative sea routes and land-based transportation.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that safety of navigation was only part of the agreement and stressed that Russia’s demands regarding agricultural exports were unmet. Russia is calling for the removal of restrictions on its agricultural bank, the resumption of key trade routes, and the unfreezing of assets tied to food exports.
Despite damage to Ukraine’s grain infrastructure, Ukraine’s 2023-24 grain exports reached near pre-war levels, with 29.4 million tonnes of corn and 18.5 million tonnes of wheat. However, exports are expected to decline next year due to smaller crop yields and depleted stocks.
The future of the Black Sea Grain Initiative remains uncertain, with continued discussions focusing on Russia’s trade and financial conditions.