News
Russia ends Grain deal and tells African Allies ‘we will give you grain for free’
By Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
Russia, July 31, 2023 – After nearly a year of collaboration with Ukraine to allow valuable grain to be shipped peacefully, Russia has pulled out of the Black Sea Grain Deal.
Struck on July 22, 2022 when the world supply of grain was dangerously low, the deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, made tons of grain available to desperate countries who were struggling with food insecurity, helping to level prices and provide more food.
The announcement came from the Kremlin via Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Russian State Media TASS, reports that the Kremlin feels that the part of the deal to do with Russia has gone unfulfilled and as such they will allow the deal to expire.
“As soon as the Russian part [of the deal] is fulfilled, the Russian side will immediately return to the implementation of this deal,” Peskov is quoted as saying.
But now, there is pressure from nations whom Russia considers allies. Media reports from an African Summit being hosted by Vladimir Putin, the Russian president reveal that he is being urged to renew the deal.
There is resistance though, as Putin has announced Russia can provide free grain to these countries over the next
four months adding that the West is responsible for this rising cost of food.
The three month deal had been renewed multiple times over the last year, allowing a steady supply of the super crops from two of the world’s largest producers. Together Russia and Ukraine are responsible for 27 percent of grain exports globally.
Now, that could come to a standstill for many, if not all countries dependent upon the Black Sea port in the Ukraine, which has since the deal was abandoned, been bombed by Russia.
In a Twitter post Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary General who was essential in brokering the deal, maintained the effects of the termination would be dire.
“I deeply regret Russia’s decision to terminate the implementation of the Black Sea Initiative, which has been a lifeline for global food security in a troubled world. Hundreds of millions facing hunger & consumers confronting a global cost-of-living crisis will pay the price,” he said.
The Turks and Caicos will be directly impacted by any price fluctuations on Grain in the US as the country is a major export partner for the Caribbean country. The US produces its own grain rather than importing but when the global price goes up so do prices in the United States.
Within hours of the announcement of the deal, wheat prices shot up.
The Wall Street Journal says wheat by the bushel, at the time of the deal collapsing, had risen 3.4 percent to $6.84 in Chicago.
In addition, poor weather conditions have been impacting prices, which were initially offset by a surplus in product.
With no relenting on either side of this bitter battle, prices could rise significantly.
Crime
Former Police Officer Opens up to Eagle Legal about Frightening Kidnapping and Robbery at Gunpoint; alarmed at TCI Police silence
By LEDEDRA MARCHE
Bahamas Information Services
GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas – Confident that Team Bahamas will once again do the country proud at the CARIFTA Games, Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey told the Grand Bahama contingent worshipping at New Destiny Kingdom Center on Sunday, April 13, 2025 that they were already stars.
The 2025 CARIFTA Aquatics and Athletics Championships are being held in Trinidad and Tobago from April 19-22.
Minister Moxey reminded the outstanding athletes that it is because of their dedication, discipline and determination they have been chosen and that they symbolize the hope, strength and resilience that the residents of Grand Bahama are known for.
“You athletes are about to represent our beautiful island and proudly carry The Bahamas’ banner with pride at the CARIFTA Games in Trinidad. Today we unite to celebrate this achievement and we want you to know that you are already champions in our eyes,” she said.
Cognizant that their journey has not been easy, Minister Moxey said they stayed the course — rising early, training hard and making sacrifices.
She pointed out that the athletes are now standing on the edge of greatness; carrying their dreams, hopes and pride in Grand Bahama Island with them.
Minister Moxey encouraged the athletes, as they step on to the track, field or into the pool, to represent The Bahamas with excellence.
“Compete with heart and remember that your island and your nation are cheering you on every step of the way. Go forward knowing that you and your coaches are covered in prayer; surrounded by love and supported by a proud Grand Bahama family,” she said.
“May God’s favour go before you, may he protect each of you on this journey and may His Grace carry you to victory.”
Representatives from the City of Freeport Council were also in attendance, and Chief Councillor Kendal Culmer also brought remarks.
PHOTO CAPTION – Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey encouraged the Grand Bahama contingent of Team Bahamas worshipping at New Destiny Kingdom Center on Sunday, April 13, 2025 before they left to compete in the 2025 CARIFTA Aquatics and Athletics Championships in Trinidad and Tobago set for April 19-22.
(BIS Photos/Andrew Miller)
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