Russia is willing to cooperate in the “unconditional” export of grain from Ukraine. The Kremlin announced this on Saturday after a telephone conversation between President Vladimir Putin, his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It is the first time since March that the three are meeting.
“Russia is ready to help find options for unlimited grain exports, including grain from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports,” the Kremlin statement said.
There were reports from the German side that Putin would be ready to clear mines so that ships can enter Ukrainian ports. This does not lead to hostile Russian actions. The United Nations should play a central role in signing and implementing a treaty.
The phone call lasted eighty minutes. Macron and Scholz urged Putin to negotiate directly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Putin warns of more instability
They also called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of the Russian army from eastern and southern Ukraine. They also called on Putin to release the 2,500 fighters captured during the capture of the Azovstal complex in Mariupol.
Putin, in turn, warned that the West would further “destabilize” the situation as arms deliveries to Ukraine continue.
Both Ukraine and Russia, for example, have problems with grain exports due to the war. Ukraine is considered the main exporter of maize and wheat, but production and exports are severely hampered by conflict.
Russia is also struggling to get rid of its grain and fertilizers. This is largely due to Western sanctions. The two countries produce a third of the world’s wheat, causing problems in the world food market.
Source: NU
John Cameron is a journalist at The Nation View specializing in world news and current events, particularly in international politics and diplomacy. With expertise in international relations, he covers a range of topics including conflicts, politics and economic trends.
