Nebenzia: Russia guarantees safe exports of Ukrainian grain
Russia has guaranteed safe passage for ships to export Ukrainian grain, but Ukraine must clear the ports – as stated by the Russian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, TASS reports
According to the diplomat, Russia's guarantees on the issue of grain exports have been given at a high level. "Now it is up to Ukraine to decide; they have mined the coastal waters, and it is now necessary to clear them," he added.
Mr. Nebenzia recalled the statement of the Turkish Foreign Minister that ways to bypass mines are known. "If they can do it, then it is great. Let these vessels leave safely," the Russian Permanent Representative commented. "The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, said we would not use exports of Ukrainian grain for military purposes,” he stressed.
As for the ceasefire issues to ensure exports, Mr. Nebenzia forwarded them to the Russian Defence Ministry.