Pope Francis calls on Russia to resume participation in grain deal

This was reported by Vatican News, Ukrinform saw.

"Let's not stop praying for Ukraine, where war destroys everything, including grain. This is a grave offense to God because grain is His gift to feed humanity. And the cry of millions of brothers and sisters who suffer hunger rises to heaven," said Pope Francis.

Speaking from the window of the Apostolic Palace in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, the pontiff said: “I appeal to my brothers, the authorities of the Russian Federation, that the Black Sea Initiative may be restored and grain may be transported safely.”

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on July 17, Russia withdrew from the agreement with Türkiye and the UN regarding the Black Sea Grain Initiative. After that, the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation announced it would consider ships heading to Ukrainian ports as legitimate military targets.

Photo: Vatican News