US State Department Spokesperson Ned Prince (File image)
Photo : AP
“We welcome the announcement of this agreement in principle, but what we’re focusing on now is holding Russia accountable for implementing this agreement and for enabling Ukrainian grain to get to world markets,” said US State Department spokesman Ned Price as quoted by AFP.
Earlier in the day, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s office announced that Russia and Ukraine would sign a grain deal in Instanbul. The event will be held at the Dolmabahce Palace offices at 1330 GMT. Erdogan and Guterres will also be present during the signing of the deal.
Ukraine is one of the largest exporters of wheat and grains, including barley and maize. Between 20-25 million tonnes of wheat and other grain have been blocked in Ukrainian ports by Russian warships and also by landmines planted by Ukraine to prevent an assault from Moscow troops.
The blockade of grain exports from Ukraine led to an increase in food prices due to which millions across the world are facing hunger. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.
