UN aid chief pushes for continuation of Ukraine grain deal

By Betul Yuruk

UNITED NATIONS (AA) - The United Nations' relief chief said Monday that Russia's suspension of the Black Sea grain deal is "concerning" and called for the supply line to stay open.

"We stand ready to discuss any concerns with the initiative and its implementation with all parties," Martin Griffiths told the UN Security Council.

"And we continue to rely on the key contribution of Türkiye as a mediator, facilitator, and a host."

On Saturday, Russia announced that it had suspended its participation in the deal to export Ukrainian grain following attacks on its Black Sea Fleet.

"We are losing time, the shipping industry is wasting money, and we are delaying food delivery when millions are hungry and can’t pay their bills," Griffiths said.

Türkiye, the UN, Russia, and Ukraine signed an agreement on July 22 in Istanbul to resume grain exports from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports, which were paused after the Russia-Ukraine war began in February.