Guterres Voices Concern Russia Could Quit Black Sea Grain Deal

UN Secretary General Antionio Guterres has voiced his concern that Russia could withdraw its support from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, that would result in its suspension from 17 July onwards. Talks resumed late last week between Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the UN in Geneva as the mediators seek to ensure the deal's continuation, which would ensure a steady supply of cheap grain to MENA nations and avoid the prospect of a spike in global wheat prices.

• Russia has sounded negative on the prospects of an extension, citing damage to an ammonia fertiliser pipeline running from Russia through Ukraine to the port of Odessa as reason enough to withdraw its support for the agreement.