ISTANBUL (Reuters) – A United Nations spokesman said on Thursday “urgent” action was needed to clear the blockade of more than 150 ships involved in a deal on Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea.
The comments come as Ukraine accuses Russia of blocking the full implementation of the agreement. Russia has expressed dissatisfaction with the agreement and threatened to withdraw.
Ships carrying grain and other foodstuffs to and from Ukraine must be inspected at anchorages in Turkey by a four-party Joint Coordination Center (JCC) team.
“More than 150 ships are currently waiting to be moved around Istanbul, and these delays could disrupt supply chains and port operations,” said UN spokesman Parra.
Parra said the JCC had recently increased its inspection teams to five.
Reuters reported last month that the stagnation had increased, with ships anchored in the Sea of Marmara stretching from Istanbul out of sight at sea.
Four parties – Russia, Ukraine, mediator Turkey and the United Nations – are currently discussing possible extensions and expansions beyond the November 19 deadline of the agreement.
“The United Nations gathers every day to ensure full and sincere participation (in the agreement), the urgent need for additional measures to ensure that supply chains are not disrupted, and the need for this project to bring more of’ the food we need for the world. ,” said Parra. We appeal to continue to deliver.”
