The Russian-Ukrainian Grain Deal: A Promissory Fiasco and Its Global Implications
Russia agreed to a deal that would allow the Ukrainian grain left over after they had harvested as much as possible to be exported anywhere in the world. However, this deal was contingent upon the Ukrainians navigating through mines planted by Russia in the Black Sea. For the first few months, Russia was able to steal the entire crop, giving Ukraine some needed rest as they no longer had to strain loading grain into their ships. It is no surprise that Russia, known for their resourcefulness, could be considered good workers in this context.
The Birth of the Grain Deal
The deal involved allowing grain to be exported from Odessa, with Ukrainians utilizing their millions of tons of stored grain to help Middle Eastern countries that are heavily dependent on it. Furthermore, Russia would also be allowed to export its own grain and fertilizer. It was stipulated that all grain ships would be inspected to verify that they did not carry any military goods. Turkey, the United Nations, Russia, and Ukraine were all co-signatories of this agreement.
The Collapse of Trust and Immediate Violations
Just a couple of minutes after the deal was announced, Russia began to blow up port facilities in Odessa, thus preventing Ukrainians from exporting their grain. They have also extensively planted mines in the Black Sea, particularly around Odessa, to ensure that any grain ships cannot make it to the port. This maneuver reveals a clear Russian plan: as is often the case with treaties they sign, they do so in bad faith, appearing to comply but ultimately acting in the most nefarious manner possible.
The "Russian" grain that is to be exported would likely be Ukrainian grain stolen from the Donbas region, along with Russian fertilizer, benefiting Russia while leaving Ukraine without any tangible gains, except missile attacks. The call for governments to send sufficient military aid to Ukraine so that they can expel the Russians and sink their Black Sea fleet to restore global economic stability is increasingly urgent.
The UN and Turkey's Efforts and Russia's Breach of Trust
The United Nations and Turkey sought to negotiate a deal that would secure safe passage for both Russian and Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea. It was proposed that cargo ships would be inspected by all four parties to confirm the absence of weapons or troops. However, less than two minutes after the agreement was announced, Russia launched a missile attack on the port in Odessa. Two missiles were shot down, but two hit the port facilities. Initially, Russia claimed it wasn't them, but later they admitted it was them, albeit stating that only military facilities were targeted. The inconsistency in their claims has fueled mistrust.
Now, in a bizarre twist, Russia is reported to have announced to Cairo that they can provide Russian grain from occupied Ukrainian ports, further eroding trust.
The world is left questioning Russia's intentions and actions, and the trust in international treaties and agreements hangs in the balance. It is crucial for the international community to remain vigilant and take necessary actions to prevent further escalation and instability.