For the time being there will be no security corridor for grain – a visit to Turkey by Russia’s foreign minister ended without concrete results. Instead, Lavrov downplayed concerns about hunger crises.
In the dispute over the blockade of Ukrainian grain in Black Sea ports, Russia has denied any responsibility. During a visit to Turkey, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov blamed Ukraine itself for this.
Ukraine has so far refused to mine its ports or otherwise allow cargo ships to pass through, Lavrov said after a meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara. The meeting did not bring any concrete results, such as the establishment of a security corridor.
“We are ready to ensure the safety of ships leaving Ukrainian ports,” Lavrov said. Referring to Ukraine, he added: “If now – as our Turkish friends tell us – it is ready either to clear mines or to ensure passage through minefields, then we hope that this problem will be solved.”
Lavrov: No “universal catastrophe”
Cavusoglu said Turkey supports a UN plan that involves all three countries. However, Kyiv and Moscow still have to agree to this.
In fact, the Russian Navy has been blockading the Ukrainian Black Sea ports for more than three months since the war of aggression against the neighboring country began. Kyiv does not trust Moscow’s promises of safe passage.
Lavrov downplayed global concerns about hunger crises. The problem with the export of Ukrainian grain is classified by the West as a “universal catastrophe”, although the Ukrainian share in the world production of wheat and other grains is less than one percent.
Lavrov later added: «There have never been any obstacles from our side to solving this problem – in fact it’s a small problem, it’s small. Should the Kiev authorities mature, we will be only too happy to cooperate.”
Source: Stern
David William is a talented author who has made a name for himself in the world of writing. He is a professional author who writes on a wide range of topics, from general interest to opinion news. David is currently working as a writer at 24 hours worlds where he brings his unique perspective and in-depth research to his articles, making them both informative and engaging.
