Turkish president, UN chief discuss ways to end crisis caused by Russia-Ukraine war

By Merve Berker

ANKARA (AA) – The Turkish president and UN secretary-general on Monday spoke over phone and discussed initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, Türkiye's Communications Directorate said in a statement.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Antonio Guterres that Türkiye maintains joint efforts to ensure the export of Ukrainian grains via Black Sea, which would be "effective in terms of averting a global food crisis."

Tons of Ukrainian grains remain shut in due to the military conflict, causing global shortages and price hikes. Russia, which is accused of using food as a weapon, says Western sanctions are to blame for the food shortages.​​​​​​​

Erdogan said he continues to urge his counterparts to revive peace negotiations and end the war, which began in February, through diplomacy.​​​​​​​