“This agreement must be implemented and we will be vigilant to ensure that Russia’s actions match its words,” Liz Truss said: “For a lasting return to global security and economic stability, [Vladimir] Putin needs to end the war and get out of Ukraine.
Ukraine and Russia today signed separate agreements with Turkey and the UN to export some 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Black Sea ports.
Two documents were signed at the Dolmabahce Palace in the Turkish city of Istanbul in a joint ceremony between Turkey and the UN – as Ukraine refused to sign the same paper as Russia – to keep the agreement in place. Four months, however, are renewable.
After two months of intense negotiations, the documents aim to create a control center in Istanbul, headed by representatives of the parties involved: Ukrainian, Russian, Turkish and a UN representative, who should establish a schedule for the rotation. Ships in the Black Sea.
The agreement also means that ships carrying grain will be inspected to ensure they are not carrying weapons to Ukraine.
These inspections are carried out at the ports of Istanbul on departure and arrival of ships.
Russia launched a military offensive in Ukraine on February 24 that killed more than 5,100 civilians, according to the UN, which warns that the true number could be much higher.
More than 16 million people have been displaced by the Russian military offensive, with more than 5.9 million of them fleeing the country, according to a recent UN report.
The international body has observed a return of people to Ukrainian territory, but warns that new waves of displacement are expected due to insecurity and lack of gas and water supplies in areas affected by the conflict.
According to the United Nations, more than 15.7 million people in Ukraine are in need of humanitarian assistance.
The Russian invasion was generally condemned by the international community, which responded by sending arms to Ukraine and strengthening economic and political sanctions on Moscow.
