Ukraine should prepare an alternative to the grain deal, says Ukrainian Ambassador to Turkey

After May 18, Russia may block the grain corridor, so Ukraine needs to develop alternative grain export routes now,” said Ambassador of Ukraine to Turkey V. Bodnar.

“We have to develop alternative export options in case the Russians block the grain deal again on May 18. Mediators do not support Russia’s actions, but it is not clear whether they will be able to influence the situation, especially given the political tensions in Turkey, where presidential elections will be held in May, and the UN’s lack of leverage over Russia,” the ambassador added.

The options for where the ships will go and whether they will enter the ports at all if the Russians block the grain initiative or threaten the ports are currently being calculated and included in the emergency plan.

As a reminder, Russia is threatening to terminate the grain agreement brokered by the UN and Turkey if its demands are not met, and has already sent a letter to the JCC of the Black Sea Grain Initiative warning that ships can only register by May 18.

Tags: Russia, Turkey, Black Sea grain export initiative, Ukraine