Greece’s Foreign Minister, George Gerapetritis, has expressed Greece’s willingness to assist in transporting Ukrainian grain via its northern ports should the existing agreement with Russia for the safe export of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea collapse. He made this statement during an informal meeting with his EU counterparts in Kyiv.
Gerapetritis emphasized the significant consequences of the potential collapse of the agreement with Russia, particularly on grain supply, especially in countries in the global south. He assured the EU ministers that Greece stands ready to provide ports such as Alexandroupoli to facilitate grain shipments in case alternative routes are required.
While this offer is primarily symbolic, the informal meeting between EU and Ukrainian diplomats underscores the European Union’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine during its 19-month-long conflict. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell reiterated the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine, emphasizing that no member state is wavering in its engagement.
The potential disruption in grain transport routes via the Black Sea has raised concerns about global grain supply, making alternative options like Greece’s ports a valuable contingency plan.
