UN says in contact with Russia on grain deal

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric has said that the UN maintains contact with Russia regarding the Black Sea Grain Initiative.

He said this after a statement by Russia's Ministry of Defense about Russia's withdrawal from the agreement, Ukrinform reports, citing The Telegraph.

Dujarric called on the participants in the grain agreement to refrain from any actions that could hinder its implementation.

"It is vital that all parties refrain from any action that would imperil the Black Sea Grain Initiative which is a critical humanitarian effort that is clearly having a positive impact on access to food for millions of people around the world," he said.

On October 29, Russia's Ministry of Defense announced Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, accusing Ukraine and Britain of "a terrorist act against ships of the Black Sea Fleet and civilian vessels involved in guaranteeing the security of the 'grain corridor'."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called on the international community not to allow Russia to block under a false pretext the "grain corridor" that ensures food security for millions of people.