Black Sea Grain Initiative ends.

 Black Sea Grain Initiative ends. 

Middle East Monitor 19 July2023

In a broadcast on the Telegram app, the Russian Ministry of Defence issued a warning regarding shipping movements in the Black Sea (go to Russian MoD website, click on small Telegram app, then scroll hunt for the message). 

It puts an end to the Black Sea grain initiative.  The announcement comes in to effect today 20th July 2023 and makes Ukranian Black Sea ports now unsafe for the export of grain and fertilisers. 

Russian MoD on Telegram App

What is / was the Black Sea grain initiative ?

During April 2022, the UN secretary general Antonio Guterres met with Vladamir Putin of Russia, and also Voldymyr Zelenshy of Ukraine .  Following these meetings , the Black Sea grain initiative was signed in Istanbul  Turkiye last year 22nd July 2022.  This was an agreement to allow the safe export of Russian and Ukranian food and fertiliser from the Ukranian ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Yuzhny. In practice it meant that Ukranian Navy guides cargo  vessels through the mined areas and the Russians can inspect any cargos. 

Reuters :  Russia and Ukraine are key producers and exporters of grain and fertliser across the world. 

Middle East Monitor :  The Russian announcement will cause insurers to review their cover of these valuable cargos. 

AA Turkish news :  Putin says the West distorted the meaning  of the Black Sea Grain Initiative.

AP news:  Chicago trading wheat price up  3%.  Pressure on world food prices.