Borrell on grain for Africa: Russia pretends to solve problem it creates

European Union High Representative Josep Borrell commented on Russia's withdrawal from the grain deal, noting that it uses food as a weapon.

That's according to the website of the European External Action Service, Ukrinform reports.

"As the world deals with disrupted supplies and higher prices, Russia is now approaching vulnerable countries, notably in Africa, with bilateral offers of limited grain shipments, pretending to solve a problem it created itself. This is a cynical policy of deliberately using food as a weapon," Borrell said.

European Union High Representative noted that in response to the "irresponsible actions" of the Russian Federation, the European Union will act in three main lines: support the UN and Türkiye attempts to resume the Black Sea Grain Initiative, continue to strengthen "Solidarity Lanes" as alternative ways to export Ukrainian agricultural products through EU member states, and increase financial support to countries and people who need it most in the amount of 18 billion euros to ensure food security until 2024.

Borrell asked the EU partners to urge Russia to return to negotiations on the renewal of the grain agreement, similar to the African Union countries, and to refrain from obstructing the functioning of Ukraine's agricultural infrastructure.

As Ukrinform reported, on July 17, Moscow announced its withdrawal from the grain agreement concluded last July in Istanbul.

During the Africa-Russia summit that ended in St. Petersburg, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat demanded that Russia restore the Black Sea Grain Initiative to full operation.