Russia: Communications with Turkey on security issues in the Black Sea continue

Moscow, 18 Sep (KUNA) -- Russia confirmed on Friday that its communications with Turkey regarding security issues in the Black Sea are ongoing, while declining to comment on reports that Ankara has submitted a draft agreement to both Ukraine and Russia to halt attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea.

Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated in a press briefing that "Russian-Turkish communications continue on issues related to Black Sea security," without providing further details on the nature of the talks or their outcomes.

In response to a question about media reports that Ankara sent Moscow and Kyiv a draft memorandum of understanding on ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea, Grushko said, "The Russian side does not comment on these reports."

This comes amid growing concerns over the safety of commercial navigation in the Black Sea, as the repercussions of the Russian-Ukrainian war persist and civilian vessels and maritime transport-related facilities face attacks and security incidents.

Reports indicated that Turkey exchanged a draft agreement with Russia and Ukraine aimed at finding a solution to the attacks in the Black Sea, noting that the proposal mirrors the "Grain Corridor mechanism," an agreement brokered by Ankara and the United Nations in 2022 to ensure the safe passage of Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea without being subjected to attacks.

Turkey had intensified its diplomatic efforts regarding navigation security in the Black Sea, drawing on its previous role in brokering the grain export agreement, which allowed for the limited-time export of grain and foodstuffs from Ukrainian ports before the agreement was suspended in July 2023. (End) Dan / TMA