Turkey Denies Reports of 'Secret Negotiations' on Grain Deal

Turkey is not conducting secret negotiations regarding the grain deal, as reported by Western media. This was stated to RIA Novosti by a source in the Turkish presidential administration, commenting on several reports from Western outlets claiming that Ankara is allegedly discussing alternative routes for the grain deal.

“The President of Turkey addressed the nation yesterday, stating that Ankara is working towards the restoration of the grain deal, considering the expectations of all parties involved. Our initiatives and objectives are quite open and clear: to address the threat to food security in countries in need. The Turkish side has no other goals. An open and honest dialogue is taking place with all parties who are aware of our objectives. All these publications are intended to 'discredit' Turkey's efforts,” the agency's interlocutor stated.

It is noteworthy that the operation of the grain deal was suspended on July 18. The Russian Federation has notified Turkey, Ukraine, and the UN about the extension of the agreement. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin noted that the terms of the deal regarding Russia had not been fulfilled, despite the efforts of the United Nations.