Russian President Vladimir Putin guaranteed on Monday that Moscow would replace Ukrainian grain destined for Africa, after the Kremlin abandoned a grain deal crucial to world food and a Russia-Africa summit neared.
“I want to ensure that our country can replace Ukrainian cereals commercially and at no cost, especially as we expect another record harvest this year,” the head of state wrote in an article posted on the Kremlin website, titled “Russia and Africa: Uniting efforts for peace, progress and a prosperous future”.
“Russia will continue its vigorous efforts to ensure the distribution of grain, food, fertilizer and other goods to Africa…the network of Russian embassies and trade missions in Africa will be expanded,” Vladimir Putin added, on the eve of the opening of the Russia-Africa summit on Thursday in the Russian city of Saint Petersburg.
African Union “regrets” Russia’s withdrawal from grain deal
Signed in July 2022 in Istanbul and renewed twice, the grain deal, which allowed Ukrainian agricultural exports to be reopened by sea despite the Russian offensive, expired last week.
In one year, it has allowed almost 33 million tons of grain to leave Ukrainian ports, mainly corn and wheat, helping to stabilize world food prices and avert the risk of shortages.
Moscow has refused to extend it, complaining of insufficient grain deliveries to poor countries and impediments to its own exports of agricultural products and fertilizers.
On Tuesday, the African Union “regretted” Russia’s withdrawal from the deal. “I urge the parties concerned to resolve the issues to allow the resumption of the continuous and safe passage of grains and fertilizers from Ukraine and Russia to regions in need, including Africa,” said AU Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat.
Moscow said on Friday it understood “the concerns” of African countries and vowed to continue delivering to countries in need. Russia also said last week that it would consider Ukraine-bound ships in the Black Sea as potentially carrying military cargo.
Source: BFM TV
