Russia is blockading Ukrainian ports, fueling fears of famine. According to a media report, both sides now agree on the export of grain for Odessa. Turkish military are to accompany the ships into neutral waters. Later, Russian warships come into play.
According to a media report, the Russian leadership has agreed a scheme with Kyiv and Ankara to release grain deliveries from the previously blocked Black Sea port of Odessa. "In the sovereign waters of the neighboring country, the Turkish military will take over the mine clearance and they will also accompany the ships to neutral waters," the Kremlin-affiliated daily Isvestia described the planned process, citing government circles. Later, Russian warships would escort the grain carriers to the Bosphorus.
The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has led to massive turbulence on world markets and driven up food prices. Ukraine is one of the largest grain exporters in the world. The Russian blockade of Ukrainian ports had therefore led to fears of famine, especially in poor African countries. Most recently, Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin received the President of the African Union (AU) and Senegal, Macky Sall. While Putin denied Russia was responsible for the food crisis, he showed his willingness to facilitate grain deliveries.
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is expected to hold talks in Ankara on Wednesday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov had already confirmed in advance that the issue of grain deliveries from Ukraine would be discussed. According to the newspaper report, the scheme should be coordinated there in detail and then officially approved. So far, such a release has only been agreed for Odessa.
