Russia Discusses Grain Deal with African Countries

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov revealed that Moscow is in contact with the leadership of many African countries after the grain deal suspension.

"Of course, we remain in contact with the leadership of many countries, particularly those in Africa that require assistance with the provision of food and fertilizer supplies," Bogdanov said.

Bogdanov affirmed that Russia will continue supporting African countries after the deal suspension. "Of course, [Russia will continue its support]."

Earlier, Russian Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev stressed the readiness to compensate for the shortfall in volumes for the poorest countries. 

"This is a complex and a challenging issue of how we will do this; it is still to be worked out. We can guarantee so far readiness of the Russian side to compensate the shortfall in volumes at our expense," he noted.

"Contacts continue," he added, answering a question about whether the grain deal is finally closed or not.