Title: The grain agreement in the Black Sea: a major geopolitical issue and the consequences for global food insecurity
Introduction :
The Black Sea grain deal, which recently made the news with Russia’s withdrawal, is a major topic on the geopolitical scene. This agreement, which aimed to ensure the export of Ukrainian cereals to developing countries, has experienced tensions and direct consequences on global food insecurity. In this article, we will analyze recent statements by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on this situation, as well as the measures taken by the United States to deal with this crisis.
The context of the grain agreement in the Black Sea:
The Black Sea grain deal was set up in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Faced with the blocking of Ukrainian cereals by Russia, this agreement aimed to allow the export of more than 30 million tonnes of cereals, mainly wheat, to developing countries. This initiative has been hailed for its positive impact on grain prices and global food security.
The withdrawal of Russia and its consequences:
However, on July 17, 2023, Russia decided to withdraw from the Black Sea grain deal, citing problems exporting its own grain. This decision had immediate repercussions on grain prices, with an increase of 10 to 15%, as well as on the countries which depended directly on Ukrainian cereals exported under this agreement.
Statements by Antony Blinken:
In a recent interview with RFI, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Russia’s withdrawal “blackmail”. He pointed out that Russian grain exports were well above pre-invasion levels of Ukraine, contradicting Russia’s alleged export difficulties. He also recalled that the United States had supported the export of Russian cereals and had offered solutions to solve the problems raised by Russia.
The measures taken by the United States:
Faced with the crisis created by Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea grain agreement, the United States adopted several measures. Antony Blinken said the United States had already allocated more than $14 billion more for global food security since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In addition, the United States supports 50% of the budget of the World Food Program, which plays a crucial role in the fight against food insecurity.
Conclusion :
The Black Sea grain deal and its withdrawal by Russia have significant implications for global food insecurity. Antony Blinken’s statements highlight the geopolitical tensions and economic issues that lie behind this situation. The actions taken by the United States demonstrate our commitment to resolving this crisis and ensuring global food security. It is now crucial to find solutions and restore an agreement that benefits all the countries concerned