Negotiations on Grain Deal Begin in Istanbul

Negotiations concerning the grain deal have commenced in Istanbul, as reported by TASS, citing Turkey's National Defense Ministry.

It is reported that representatives from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, and the UN are participating in the talks. Earlier, TASS, referencing its source in Ankara, indicated that the grain deal would be extended after May 18, taking into account Russia's desires.

It has also been mentioned that the security of the grain corridor will be discussed during the negotiations in Istanbul. On July 22, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, and the UN signed an agreement in Istanbul to create a corridor for the export of agricultural products from Ukraine via the Black Sea. The grain deal's deadline has been extended multiple times.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has repeatedly pointed out that the 'package' of agreements proposed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and signed in Istanbul on July 22, 2022, is not functioning due to the neglect of Russian demands. In particular, obstacles remain for the export of Russian agricultural products to global markets.

On April 25, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that the Russian Federation does not see the West's willingness to fulfill the conditions of the grain deal.