U.N. chief welcomes Russia return to grain deal

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed on Wednesday Russia's resumption of participation in the grain deal, a U.N. spokesman said, and is continuing to push for a renewal of the pact that could expire on November 19.

"The Secretary-General continues his engagement with all actors towards the renewal and full implementation of the Initiative, and he also remains committed to removing the remaining obstacles to the exports of Russian food and fertilizer," said U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric.