Russia Says It Will Only Renew Grain Deal If Its Own Exports Are Unblocked

Vessels are seen as they await inspection under the Black Sea Grain Initiative, brokered by the United Nations and Türkiye, in the southern anchorage of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Türkiye, December 11, 2022. (Reuters)

Russia said on Wednesday it would only agree to extend the Black Sea grain deal, which allows grain to be safely exported from Ukrainian ports, if the interests of its own agricultural producers are taken into account.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative, brokered by the United Nations and Türkiye last year, expires on March 18 and cannot be extended unless all parties agree. Russia has already signaled it is unhappy with aspects of the deal.