Türkiye could play key role in halting Ukraine-Russia attacks in the Black Sea, ambassador says
Photo: Nariman Dzhelyal (RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine has proposals for a moratorium on attacks in the Black Sea and the resumption of grain transportation. Türkiye could play a key role in forcing Russia to agree to a ceasefire, as Ukrainian Ambassador to Türkiye Nariman Dzhelyal said in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
According to him, amid Russia's ongoing attacks on civilian vessels, including those carrying Ukrainian grain, serious concern is arising among shipowners and insurance companies, as well as regional states.
The ambassador stressed that Kyiv, for its part, has specific proposals regarding the cessation of attacks in the Black Sea and grain transportation. These proposals were voiced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Ukraine is currently awaiting a response.
Dzhelyal noted that even if some understanding is reached, there is a question of whether the Russian side can be forced into a conditional moratorium on attacks. And Türkiye could play a role in this matter.
"Here, Türkiye's role could become key. We can see from the situation in the Strait of Hormuz how difficult this is. Unfortunately, ensuring complete safety of shipping under such conditions is extremely difficult," the Ukrainian ambassador to Ankara added.
Attacks in the Black Sea
Days ago, Russian deputy foreign minister Alexander Grushko said that the Russian side does not yet see the prerequisites for restoring the Black Sea grain deal. According to him, Moscow links a possible return to the deal to the West's position on sanctions.
According to The Telegraph, Russian attacks on civilian shipping and port infrastructure have significantly restricted the operations of the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Pivdennyi. Due to growing risks, shipowners are refusing to enter Ukrainian ports, which has already led to a decline in exports and could cost Ukraine up to 1.5% of GDP by the end of the year.
