Ukraine wants to reach agreement on "grain corridor" ASAP

Representatives of the Ukrainian authorities plan to conclude a deal on the "grain corridor" in the Black Sea as soon as possible, Reuters writes in the wake of the Istanbul talks.

According to the news agency, Russia and Ukraine reported on progress towards an agreement to lift the blockade of ports in the Black Sea. Representatives of the Turkish side said that the deal could be concluded as early as next week.

"We really hope so. We are working really fast,” a Ukrainian source said asking not to be identified.

The deal is expected to include ship inspections to make sure Ukraine does not use the ships to import weapons, as well as assurances from Western countries that sanctions will not affect Russia's food exports.