Step on it! ๐
Jun 26, 2023๐บ๐ณ๐ข The Secretary General of the UN has called for an acceleration of shipments from Ukrainian ports under the Black Sea Grain Initiative. He urges all parties to step on it (figuratively, of course, since we're talking about boats)! He wants them to accelerate their operations and do their best to ensure the continuation of this vital agreement – which is up for renewal on July 17, btw.
๐ While the deal has been productive, food exports have dropped significantly and in May, hit their lowest volume since the Initiative began last year. To make matters worse, Russia's President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia was considering withdrawing from the deal. See more about Russia's moves here and more about the UN's position here.