Nausėda discusses grain dispute with Zelenskyy, Duda

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has discussed grain spat with the leaders of Ukraine and Poland, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Andrzej Duda

This is reported by LRT.

"The dispute between Ukraine and Poland should be resolved as soon as possible because of the common, most important goal – to protect Europe from Russia's aggressive expansionist policy. Poland's position in providing support is exceptional. It is necessary to find a solution, because further deepening of the crisis would be irresponsible," Nausėda said.

He emphasized that only joint efforts can counter the threat that hangs over the entire region.

"Social disagreements, regardless of the reasons, not only undermine unity, but also contribute to the enemy's propaganda," Nausėda said.

Nausėda spoke with the presidents of Ukraine and Poland about simplifying the procedure for transporting grain through Poland and increasing transit through Lithuania, thereby reducing pressure.

In the near future, the Lithuanian president will continue negotiations with both Ukraine and Poland, his office said.

At the same time, Ukraine's presidential spokesman, Serhii Nykyforov, told reporters that "President Zelenskyy did not have a joint meeting with Duda and Nausėda." Apparently, Nausėda spoke with both presidents separately.

The ban on grain imports and Ukraine's claim to the WTO

On May 2, the European Commission adopted temporary safeguard measures against imports of certain agricultural products from Ukraine to 5 EU countries. Initially, the ban was to be in place until June 5. 

On May 12, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary called on the European Commission to extend the embargo on agricultural products from Ukraine until the end of the year.

On Friday, September 15, the European Commission decided not to extend the ban on Ukrainian grain exports to the EU: Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia announced that they would extend the embargo unilaterally.

Ukraine has filed a lawsuit with the WTO against the EU countries that maintain restrictions on grain imports. At the same time, Poland said it would not change its decision because it was trying to protect local farmers.

Ukraine announced that it may stop importing apples, onions, cabbage, and tomatoes from Poland.

In response, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that the country would no longer transfer weapons to Ukraine, but would arm itself.