ISLAMABAD: The UN secretary general expressed regret over Russia’s decision to pull out of the Black Sea grain deal. It would result in millions of people suffering from hunger and bearing the consequences.
Speaking at the United Nations headquarters in New York, the UN Secretary-General express his concern over Russia’s decision. Stating that it would have a negative impact on people in need worldwide.
He highlights the ongoing challenges of hunger and the global cost-of-living crisis. Emphasizing that these issues would be further exacerbated as a result. Despite the regrettable decision by Russia, the Secretary-General said that the UN’s efforts to ensure unobstructed access to food and fertilizers from Ukraine and Russia in global markets would persist. He stresses the importance of advancing global food security and maintaining stability in food prices as crucial goals moving forward.
Although,in response to Russia’s decision to withdraw from the grain deal, the UN Secretary-General expressed his disappointment, stating that the move would increase human suffering. He revealed that a letter he had previously sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin proposing a new solution had been ignored.
The letter suggests reconnecting a subsidiary of Russia’s main agricultural bank. Which has faced sanctions, on the global SWIFT banking system. Russia had raised concerns about the impact of sanctions on its own grain and fertilizer exports, leading to unmet conditions for extending the initiative.
The Secretary-General acknowledges some progress in Russian grain trade and fertilizer markets. Noting that exports were approaching a full recovery.
However, at the United Nations, the US Ambassador strongly criticizes Russia’s decision. Accusing Moscow of holding humanity hostage and causing harm to the most vulnerable populations. She refers to Russia’s recent blocking of an aid route to Syria, which severely impact millions of people in rebel-held areas. The Ambassador described the withdrawal from the grain deal. This is considered another act of cruelty, emphasizing that real people would suffer while Russia played political games.
