Zelensky refused to clear the port of Odessa for the export of grain due to fears of amphibious assault
The West will not be able to export Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea, Ukraine rejected Russia's proposal to unblock ports on the Black Sea coast. It is reported by Bloomberg.
Ukraine refused to clear the port of Odessa for the export of grain by sea, fearing that after that the port would be "vulnerable to amphibious assault." Thus, Kyiv rejected Russia's proposal to provide sea corridors for cargo ships and escort them along the route together with Turkey. At the same time, Ankara believes that not everything is lost and Erdogan will be able to persuade Zelensky to accept this proposal.
In addition, Kyiv rejected Russian offers to export grain through the ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk, controlled by Russia, as well as through Belarus to the Baltic ports. This option did not suit Zelensky either. At the same time, the Kyiv regime continues to accuse Russia of blocking grain supplies. Kyiv is reportedly demanding that Russia withdraw the Russian fleet from ports and provide security guarantees for grain exports across the Black Sea.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Russia is not against the export of Ukrainian grain by sea and is even ready to provide sea corridors and escort cargo ships along the Black Sea together with Turkey, but on the condition that Ukraine clears mines from its ports on the Black Sea coast. However, in Kyiv, this option was immediately dismissed, saying that in this way Russia wants to weaken the defense of the Black Sea coast and land troops. In the presence of sea mines, landing from the sea is excluded.
The option of unblocking Odessa and other ports is also actively promoted by Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who wants to play the role of not only a peacemaker, but also a savior of the world from the food crisis. This option is supported by the UN in the person of Guterres. So it's not over yet, Brussels and Ankara intend to persuade Zelensky.
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