Ukraine announces temporary passages in the Black Sea for merchant ships
Ukraine has announced the opening of temporary passages in the Black Sea for merchant ships sailing to and from the ports of Chornomorsk, Odessa, and Yuzhny. The passage will be administered by the “master and owner of the vessel.”
Military threat and mine danger warning
According to the report of the Ukrainian Navy, Kyiv has warned of the continued existence of a military threat and mine danger. Ships, whose owners and captains officially confirm their readiness to sail in these conditions, will be allowed to pass.
End of the grain deal
The grain deal ended on July 18 when Russia objected to extending it. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the terms of the agreement with Russia had not been met despite UN efforts, blaming Western countries for not keeping their promises.
Russian Defense Ministry’s warning
The Russian Defense Ministry had previously warned that Moscow would consider all ships bound for Ukraine via the Black Sea as weapons carriers.
Background on the grain agreement
The grain agreement was concluded at the initiative of Ankara between Russia, Ukraine, and the UN. It allowed the export of Ukrainian grain through a humanitarian corridor opened by the Russian fleet in the Black Sea. In return, Russian grain and fertilizers were allowed on the market.
Obstacles due to Western sanctions
Western sanctions became an obstacle to the implementation of the agreement. Participating countries pledged not to restrict the movement of Russian exports but ended up punishing insurance companies and shipping services cooperating with Moscow, which disrupted the movement of Russian exports. Moscow was eventually forced to suspend the agreement.
Source
Source: TASS
