Putin announced on Monday that Russia will step in to replace Ukrainian grain shipments to Africa after Moscow’s withdrawal from a deal that allowed safe passage for the grain. In a statement published on the Kremlin’s website, President Vladimir Putin reassured that Russia would continue its active efforts to supply grain, food products, fertilizers, and other goods to Africa.
“I want to assure you that our country is fully capable of taking over the responsibility for providing Ukrainian grain to Africa, both on a commercial and free-of-charge basis,” Putin stated.
The dispute arose when Moscow’s military operation led to the blockade of Ukraine’s Black Sea ports with warships, which was resolved temporarily by a UN and Turkey-brokered agreement signed in July 2022. This agreement allowed crucial grain shipments to resume. However, Russia exited the deal recently, citing dissatisfaction with the lack of adherence to a related agreement that would have allowed the export of Russian food and fertilizers.
Following Russia’s decision, the African Union expressed regret over the termination of the grain export deal. Humanitarian groups have raised concerns about Africa’s heavy reliance on grain imports from both Russia and Ukraine.
It’s important to note that this week, Russia is set to host the second Russia-Africa Summit and Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, as per the Kremlin’s schedule.
