Russia Rejects Black Sea Ceasefire Amid Escalating Attacks and Rising Grain Prices
Escalation of Conflict and Impact on Global Grain Markets
Russia's Stance on Ceasefire Proposals
LONDON, Aug 14 (Reuters) - Russia on Friday dismissed the idea of a ceasefire with Ukraine in the Black Sea, saying it saw no grounds for "half-measures" that would offer a respite to the other side.
Increased Attacks and Economic Consequences
Both Russia and Ukraine have stepped up attacks in recent weeks against commercial ships in the Black Sea, driving world grain prices higher.
Official Statements and Accusations
In a statement, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Ukraine of "brazen acts of terrorism" against shipping, while making no mention of Russia's own attacks.
Destabilization of Civilian Shipping
"We view these attacks (by Ukraine) as a deliberate policy aimed at destabilising civilian shipping in the Black Sea region to further escalate tensions and prolong the conflict, all with the blatant acquiescence of regional neighbours," Zakharova said.
Refusal of Temporary Measures
"At the same time, we see no signs of improvement in the situation and, consequently, no grounds for half-measures that merely grant the Kyiv regime a temporary breathing space."
International Mediation Efforts
Zakharova said she was commenting on a statement by Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in a media interview that Ankara had put proposals to both Russia and Ukraine for a moratorium on military operations in the Black Sea.
Lack of Formal Proposals
She said Russia had received no formal proposal from Turkey.
Ukrainian Offer for Civilian Target Ceasefire
Reuters reported on Thursday that Ukraine has transmitted an offer to Russia, via a third party, for both sides to halt attacks on civilian targets in the Black Sea.
Breakdown of the Black Sea Grain Initiative
Zakharova said it was not feasible to return to the 2022-23 Black Sea grain initiative brokered by Turkey, an arrangement that allowed Russia and Ukraine - both major grain exporters - to continue to supply world markets. The agreement, which she called one-sided, broke down after Russia accused Ukraine and the West of failing to honour their side of the deal.
(Writing by Mark Trevelyan and Maxim Rodionov in London; Editing by Aidan Lewis)
