The first question of the journalist touched upon the topic of the "grain transaction." Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that they were ready for its extension on conditions favorable for Russia. What is the benefit of Russia from the deal, and whether the situation that Vladimir Putin previously spoke about remains - that most of the grain exported does not fall into the poorest countries, but into the countries of the European Union.
"If this is true - does Russia raise this issue when discussing the terms of the extension of the deal?," the correspondent asked.
Maria Zakharova pointed out that the current situation with the export of Ukrainian grain remains, the Russian approach to the grain deal remains the same, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov previously gave a comment on this issue.
During the briefing, she previously indicated that if the West fulfills its obligations under the deal, then the forecast for its extension will be optimistic. On the contrary, if part of the grain transaction regarding the export of Russian grain and fertilizers is not fulfilled, the forecast for its extension will be pessimistic.
The diplomat clarified that on March 13, negotiations will be held in Geneva to extend the agreement between representatives of the Russian Federation and the UN.
The correspondent of our publication also touched upon the settlement of the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. A few days ago, there was an incident with the execution of Armenian servicemen.
"How the investigation of the incident is progressing, whether the parties are cooperating - as you know, Armenia and Azerbaijan have completely different interpretations of what happened. How can this situation affect the peacekeeping mission of the Russian Federation in Nagorno-Karabakh?, " the journalist asked.
The diplomat pointed out the need to de-escalate tensions and return the parties to the negotiating table as soon as possible. The agency previously circulated a similar comment on March 6. It stated that any issues related to ensuring security and life in the area of responsibility of the Russian peacekeeping contingent (RMK) should be resolved peacefully in contact between the parties under the auspices of the RMK.