Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia is "not ready" for a ceasefire concerning attacks on ships transporting agricultural produce in the Black Sea. Russia rejected Ukraine's offer to halt attacks on civilian targets in the Black Sea, seeking a broader agreement that would include a cessation of attacks on Russian refineries and pipelines. Zelenskyy emphasized that for Russia, the issue is not about grain but exclusively about its energy sector, and any deal to stop attacks on Russian oil refineries and fuel transportation would necessitate a reciprocal halt to attacks on Ukraine's energy system.
Ukraine had proposed to foreign leaders that their vessels be used to export both Ukrainian and Russian agricultural commodities, with a guarantee against attacks on these ships. However, Moscow dismissed the idea as "half-measures" and deemed Kyiv's proposals "unacceptable" and even "exotic." Russia's stance highlights its desire for a quid pro quo: a halt to attacks on Ukraine's grain corridor in exchange for an end to strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.
Attacks on shipping in the Black Sea have significantly impacted grain exports from both Russia and Ukraine, with over 97% of their combined export capacity in the Azov and Black Sea basin shut down. Ukraine's Black Sea terminals have ceased operations, and major Russian grain terminals in Novorossiysk, such as NZT and NKHP, were shut down after Ukrainian drone strikes. These disruptions have led to a substantial decrease in grain exports, forcing Ukraine to rely on rail and river routes and contributing to a 6.5% rise in global wheat prices this month.
