President Volodymyr Zelensky said this while speaking with journalists, according to Ukrinform.
“The Russians started this escalation because they very much wanted to block our ability to defend ourselves. We are responding, including by attacking their shadow fleet, oil facilities, Novorossiysk, and so on. They were unable to find a way to stop us. They even tried to find political ways, using certain political leaders to influence us, but they failed. Then they began attacking our grain corridor. And, of course, we started responding again. And it appears that their position is that they will not attack our grain corridor only if we do not attack their energy sector,” Zelensky said.
He noted that Ukraine is ready to discuss separate agreements on halting strikes.
“If we are talking about a ceasefire and energy, then let’s talk about it. We will not attack your gasoline or diesel, but you cannot attack our electricity. If you are ready to talk on an equal footing, then let’s talk. If it is about the agricultural sector, then let’s talk about the agricultural sector; if it is about energy, then let’s talk about energy. If it is about a full ceasefire, then let’s talk about a full ceasefire. We are genuinely ready to negotiate with them on a ceasefire in the energy and agricultural sectors,” the president said.
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According to Zelensky, Ukraine is also working to find mechanisms that would allow it to ensure food corridors and preserve Ukrainian agricultural exports and global food security.
As reported, amid Russia’s blockade of the Black Sea maritime corridor, Ukraine is actively seeking ways to restore agricultural exports and has already appealed to its partners for assistance in lifting the blockade by increasing pressure on Russia.