UN chief 'deeply concerned' as Russia suspends participation in vital Ukraine grain deal

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday expressed "deep concern" as Ukraine's maritime grain exports were halted after Russia suspended its participation in a deal that allowed the vital shipments.

"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the ongoing situation regarding the Black Sea Grain Initiative," his spokesman said.

"He has decided to delay his departure for the Arab League Summit in Algiers by a day to focus on the issue."

Ukraine's maritime grain exports were halted after Russia suspended its participation, blaming drone attacks on its ships in Crimea.

The July deal to unlock grain exports signed between Russia and Ukraine and brokered by Turkey and the UN was seen as critical to easing the global food crisis caused by the conflict.

The agreement allowed more than nine million tonnes of Ukrainian grain to be exported and was due to be renewed on November 19.