Ukraine considering alternative grain export routes

The Black Sea grains deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, allowed Ukraine to export grain, despite the Russian navy having blocked its ports. As a result global food prices went down and aid agencies were able to access hundreds of thousands of tonnes of food needed in vulnerable countries in Africa and Asia. Since Russia pulled out of the deal last week the European Union is seeking to transport more Ukrainian grains via road and rail. But these alternative routes are seemingly becoming targeted as well.

Why is the Black Sea grain deal important?

Fears are growing that Russia won't extend its grain deal with Ukraine after it expires later this Monday. The move would affect millions of people across the globe who are struggling with hunger and dependent on the grain and other foods that come out of Ukraine. Ukraine is a major supplier of crops such as maize, wheat and barley and also sunflower oil.
 

Russia signals it may not agree to 'critical' grain deal extension

 UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have called for the extension of a crucial deal with Moscow that allows Ukrainian grain exports.

Speaking after talks in Kyiv, Zelenskyy stressed that the Black Sea Grain Initiative was vital for the world. Guterres agreed, saying the agreement was essential to global food security. The deal allows Ukraine to ship grain from its Black Sea ports and Russia to export fertilizer and food. It's set to expire on March 18, Moscow has signaled that it might not let the deal continue.

Lavrov in Africa: Russia aiming for regime change in Ukraine

Ukraine says it's prepared to restart grain exports through the Black Sea despite a Russian missile strike on the port city of Odesa. The attack happened just one day after the two countries signed a deal to resume exporting to global markets despite ongoing war.