Russia and the US have agreed to advance the Black Sea Initiative – why could the US be interested in the new deal?
Diplomatic strategy: Acting as a broker, America may have a vested interest in taking part in negotiating an agreement that could improve its relations with Russia following key phone talks between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.
Economic considerations: The US remains a major player in global agricultural trade, and potential disruptions to the grain market could affect global commodity prices and ride roughshod over US exporters.
Energy security: The US understands that grain trade is intertwined with broader supply chains, including energy. America also understands that a stable Black Sea corridor means more predictable energy and commodity flows, which benefits energy markets that the US takes part in.
Personal implications: The White House is highly interested in ensuring the implementation of the US-initiated deal, which becomes a question of profit and prestige for America.