Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine proposed a ceasefire on attacks targeting ships transporting agricultural produce in the Black Sea. However, Russia rejected this offer, insisting that any deal must include a halt to Ukrainian strikes on its energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy stated that Moscow's condition for not attacking Ukraine's grain corridor is that Kyiv ceases attacks on Russian energy facilities.
Zelenskyy emphasized that for Russia, the issue is not about grain but exclusively about its energy sector, which he noted are not comparable concerns. He clarified that any agreement to stop Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries and fuel transportation would necessitate a reciprocal cessation of attacks on Ukraine's energy system. Russia has not yet commented on these specific remarks, but the Kremlin previously indicated that measures are being taken to minimize the impact of Ukrainian strikes on Russian grain exports.
Both Russia and Ukraine, significant players in global agricultural markets, have accused each other of escalating attacks on vessels used for food exports during the ongoing conflict. These intensified attacks have led to fears about their impact on global grain supplies, particularly since the two nations collectively account for over 25% of global wheat exports. In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its strikes on Russian economic targets, including grain export terminals, while Russia has also targeted Ukrainian port infrastructure.
