Putin: Russia will discuss with the UN the resumption of work of the Ukrainian section of the ammonia pipeline

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Russia is ready to expand the supply of fertilizers to world markets. He noted that the work of “Uralchem” and “Uralkali” is going well, despite the artificial barriers from a number of countries. The head of state said that Moscow is in contact with the UN Secretary General on the issue of unblocking fertilizers from European ports. According to him, Russia will also work with the UN on the issue of resuming the operation of the Togliatti-Odessa ammonia pipeline.

“The parameters are there, the figures are known, the volumes are clear. Benefits for all participants in this process (from the launch of the Togliatti-Odessa ammonia pipeline.— “b”) is also clear. We will also work with the UN, with colleagues from the organization. Let’s see what happens. You know my position, I don’t mind, please,” Mr. Putin said at a meeting with the head of Uralchem, Dmitry Mazepin (quoted by TASS).

The entrepreneur said that the Ukrainian side puts forward political demands for the launch of the pipeline. He expressed hope that the issue of ammonia supplies could be resolved within the grain deal.

“We are ready to expand this work (to expand exports of fertilizers.— “b”) with all partners without any exception,” the president said.

Vladimir Putin called it unacceptable to block the supply of fertilizers to countries in need, to which Russia is ready to supply goods free of charge. He stated that the leaders of several African countries contacted him because of the blocking of Russian fertilizers. Russia must provide support to its friends in developing countries, including in Africa, the president stressed. He supported Uralchem’s request to apply to the UN and the African Union to unblock 260 thousand tons of fertilizers.

“I have been directly contacted on this issue by the leaders of several African countries, who, of course, do not understand what is happening. Since the need to help the poorest countries is all the time, and on issues completely unrelated to food security, these deliveries – even gratuitous deliveries – are blocked. This is completely unacceptable, but it is happening,” the head of state said.

Mezepin, in turn, said that more than 400 thousand Russian fertilizers were frozen in European ports due to sanctions. In the ports of Estonia, Latvia, Belgium, Holland – 262 thousand tons, Akron – 52 thousand tons, Eurochem – almost 100 thousand tons.

Vladimir Putin has repeatedly stated that the Russian Federation is ready to send 300 thousand tons of Russian fertilizers to developing countries within the framework of the grain deal (it was concluded on July 22 in Istanbul), but EU sanctions have become an obstacle to this. November 4 Turkey and Russia agreed about sending grain to Africa for free. November 11 UN reported on the shipment to Malawi of the first batch of Russian fertilizers previously blocked in Europe.

Read more about the grain deal and the situation with fertilizers in the material “Kommersant” “And the grain floats”.

Daria Erozbek