Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (Photo: AFP/VNA)

Lavrov said Ukraine has rejected the negotiation process, which reduces the chances of resolving the conflict by diplomatic means, while Russia has said it is ready for negotiations.

At a press conference on Monday, Lavrov said the Russian delegation will arrive in Turkey on Tuesday to discuss Ukraine's grain transport. He said he hopes the two sides can come up with a specific plan for delivery, insurance, and maintenance of the ships that will transport grain to European ports.

President Vladimir Putin said earlier that Moscow is ready to find a way to unlock grain exports from Ukrainian ports and demanded that the West lift sanctions.