According to the Ukrainian ambassador to Ankara, Russia exports grain mainly from Ukraine to Turkey. President Erdogan is trying to mediate the war, but is dependent on Russia.
Ukraine’s ambassador to Ankara has accused Russia of “stealing” Ukrainian grain and exporting it specifically to Turkey. “Russia shamelessly steals grain from Ukraine and exports it from Crimea to foreign countries, especially Turkey,” the embassy’s Twitter account said. Ambassador Wasyl Bodnar shared this post, adding: “We have asked Turkey for help in resolving the issue.”
NATO member Turkey seeks to take a neutral position in the war. On the one hand, Ankara has provided war drones to Ukraine and is trying to mediate the conflict. Turkey, on the other hand, avoids imposing sanctions on Russia, which depends on its grain and energy supplies.
Turkey provides security of sea lanes
At the request of the United Nations, Turkey has also offered to help secure maritime trade routes for the export of Ukrainian grain. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is due to travel to Turkey on Wednesday to discuss the issue.
Prior to Russia’s February 24 invasion, Ukraine was a major exporter of cereals and sunflower oil. Each month, Kiev exports 12 percent of the world’s wheat, 15 percent to corn and 50 percent to sunflower oil.
Prices in agricultural markets have skyrocketed as crops are at risk of rotting in soil pits due to the war. It poses a risk of severe famine in countries that depend on grain imports, especially in Africa and the Middle East.
. “Amateur alcohol specialist. Reader. Hardcore introvert. Freelance explorer.”