Ukraine and Russia have signed “mirror” deals which will allow Kyiv to resume exports of grain through the Black Sea.
The agreement will allow millions of tonnes of grain, currently trapped in Ukraine by the war, to be exported.
The world shortage of Ukrainian grain since Russia’s 24 February invasion has left millions at risk of hunger.
However, Kyiv refused to sign a direct deal with Moscow, and warned “provocations” would be met with “an immediate military response”.
Both sides attended the signing ceremony in Istanbul but did not sit at the same table. Russia’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu signed Moscow’s deal first, followed by Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov signing Kyiv’s identical agreement.
Putin’s illegal war has pushed many millions of the world’s most vulnerable to the brink of starvation.
This development is a beacon of hope for the months ahead.
There’s no time to waste, the deal must be implemented fully and without delay. https://t.co/NV8LG1R9zb
— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) July 22, 2022