Pope Francis has called on Russia to reverse its decision to abandon the Black Sea Grain Deal, which allowed Ukraine to export grain from its seaports despite the ongoing war. During his weekly Angelus message, Francis appealed to the authorities of the Russian Federation to resume the Black Sea initiative and ensure the safe transportation of grain.

The withdrawal of Russia from the pact, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022, has led to a spike in global wheat prices. Since July 17, Russia has been targeting Ukrainian ports and grain infrastructure on the Black Sea and Danube River. This situation has prompted the pope to address the crowds in St Peter’s Square, urging them to pray for Ukraine, where the war is destroying everything, including grain. He described this as a grave insult to God and emphasized the rising cry of millions of people suffering from hunger.

Russia’s decision to leave the Black Sea deal was due to its demands for eased sanctions on its own grain and fertilizer exports, which were not met. Moscow also expressed dissatisfaction with the insufficient amount of grain reaching poor countries. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to supply Africa with grain, some of it for free. However, the chair of the African Union, Azali Assoumani, deemed this offer insufficient, stating that a ceasefire in Ukraine was needed.

Despite repeatedly condemning Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, Pope Francis has maintained an open channel of communication with Moscow, albeit with limited results. In May, he appointed Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the head of the Italian bishops’ conference, as a peace envoy. Zuppi has visited Kyiv, Moscow, and Washington, working on the repatriation of children from Russia and Russia-controlled areas to Ukraine.

In conclusion, Pope Francis is urging Russia to reconsider its decision to withdraw from the Black Sea grain deal, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safe transportation of grain. He continues to condemn Russia’s aggression in Ukraine while maintaining communication with Moscow through his peace envoy.