Russia says it has halted a deal that allows much-needed grain to flow from Ukraine to countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced halting the deal today, insisting Russia would return to the deal, When the part of the Black Sea deal related to Russia is implemented.
Senior analyst, Australian strategic policy institute, Malcom Davis argued that Putin may be using the grain deal suspension as a ploy to force relaxation of some sanction by the west.
Turkey brokered the agreement to let food leave Ukrainian ports via the Black Sea, and a separate agreement facilitated the movement of Russian food and fertilizer amid Western sanctions.
However, Russia has complained that restrictions on shipping and insurance have hampered its food and fertilizer exports.
