Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Ukraine is prepared to seek compromise with Russia over grain and energy issues, while emphasizing that Moscow must demonstrate equal willingness to make concessions.
Speaking to journalists on September 8, Zelenskyy described grain and energy as sensitive matters affecting not only Ukraine and Russia but also numerous other nations dependent on food and energy resources. He cited India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and other Asian countries as examples of states with significant stakes in resolving these disputes.
"Grain, energy—these are painful issues for Ukraine and Russia. And these are painful issues for the whole world. For India today, for the Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Asia, many countries. We are ready to find compromise here," Zelenskyy stated.
However, the president stressed that Ukraine should not be the sole party making concessions in negotiations. He called for Russia to demonstrate readiness for specific steps toward resolution.
"It is very important that we are today in such a situation and in such a position where both Ukraine and Russia need to take some steps. Not to wait only for compromises from Ukraine. Ukraine has already made many compromises," Zelenskyy said.
The remarks come as Russia's grain market faces significant pressure following disruptions to key Azov-Black Sea terminals, underscoring the broader economic stakes involved in negotiations over agricultural exports and energy supplies between the two countries.