Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (Photo: Anadolu/VNA)

Through the efforts of Turkey, with the support of Russia and contributions by Ukraine, it was decided to extend the Black Sea grain deal for another two months, Erdogan said, addressing his party members via teleconference. Erdogan thanked the leaders of Russia and Ukraine and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for their efforts to extend the agreement.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the deal was extended to help countries in need, but Russia's overall assessment of the situation has not changed.  Mr. Guterres welcomed the extension, but noted that outstanding issues remain.

Russia agreed to extend the Black Sea pact for a further 120 days in November, then in March agreed to a 60-day extension until May 18.  Russia said it will walk away from the deal ahead of the May 18 deadline if the West does not lift restrictions on Russian agriculture and fertiliser exports.