Grain deal signed by Russia and Ukraine
RUSSIA and Ukraine signed separate agreements with Turkey and the United Nations, clearing the way for exporting millions of tons of desperately needed Ukrainian grain as well as Russian grain and fertiliser.
The moves end a wartime stand-off that had threatened food security around the globe.
Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu and Ukrainian infrastructure minister Oleksandr Kubrakov signed separate deals with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Turkish defence minister Hulusi Akar.
The ceremony was witnessed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
“Today, there is a beacon on the Black Sea,” Mr Guterres said. “A beacon of hope, a beacon of possibility, a beacon of relief in a world that needs it more than ever.”
“You have overcome obstacles and put aside differences to pave the way for an initiative
that will serve the common interests of all,” he said, addressing the Russian and Ukrainian representatives.
Meanwhile Boris Johnson spoke to Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday, telling the Ukrainian president that UK support will “not waver” regardless of who becomes the next prime minister.
Mr Johnson also welcomed news of a UN-brokered deal to get grain out of Ukraine.
A Downing Street spokeswoman said the Prime Minister “stressed the UK’s ongoing determination to support the Ukrainian people and said that resolve will not waver, no matter who becomes the next UK prime minister”.
She added: “President Zelensky thanked the PM for his staunch support for Ukraine and for his kind words in his last address to Parliament.
“The Prime Minister outlined the recent steps the UK has taken to bolster Ukraine’s resistance, including training thousands of Ukrainian troops in the UK.
“The UK is working to expand this training effort, including through the involvement of international partners. President Zelensky said the military support being provided by the UK and others is making a real difference in the conflict.
“The Prime Minister welcomed today’s announcement of a UN-brokered deal to get grain out of Ukraine via the Black Sea and end Russia’s blockade. Both the Prime Minister and President Zelensky stressed the need for the deal to be implemented in full by all parties.”