Russia Developing New Grain Supply Routes, Says Deputy Foreign Minister

During the operation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, over 30 million tons of grain have been exported by sea from Ukraine. This was stated by Sergey Vershinin, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, during a press briefing regarding the cessation of Russia's participation in the grain deal.

The diplomat noted that the same amount of grain has been exported over land routes from Ukraine during the same time period. Vershinin emphasized that Russia is working on developing new grain supply routes following the suspension of the grain deal.

The Deputy Foreign Minister highlighted that mechanisms to lift sanctions on Russian agricultural exports are not functioning, hence Russia's response is legal and just. He also stated that Russia will check ships in the Black Sea before taking any action. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin declared that all vessels navigating in the Black Sea will be considered military cargo.

“We must ensure that the ship does not transport anything dangerous,” he said.