Russia sets terms for grain deal

If the Russian part of the grain deal is not implemented, Russia will suspend its participation after May 18, the country’s foreign ministry said. And if Russia leaves, it will provide free grain to needy countries, President Vladimir Putin said in turn.

“If we still decide not to renew this agreement after 60 days, then we are ready to deliver for free all the volume that was sent to countries in Africa especially in the past from Russia to these countries,” Putin said. at an international parliamentary conference “Russia – Africa in a multipolar world”, the remarks of which are reported by RIA Novosti.

The Head of State recalled that the cereal needs of African countries are the reason why Russia is extending its participation in the food agreement. At the same time, the agreements reached in Istanbul involve the supply of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea and the unblocking of exports of Russian agricultural products and fertilizers.

“We insist on the comprehensive nature of this agreement, mainly in the interest of African countries and other developing countries, bearing in mind that they need large quantities of food,” Putin stressed.

Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Russia would not renew its participation in the deal on May 18 if by then there were no blocked Russian export movements.