Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu was seen on live TV arriving on Friday in Istanbul, where Russia and Ukraine will later sign a deal to facilitate grain exports.

Shoigu will also hold a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart Hulusi Akar, RIA Novosti News Agency reported, citing Russia's defense ministry.

The Kremlin said Friday it was "very important" to unblock grain exports as Kyiv and Moscow were set to sign a deal to help relieve a global food crisis.

(With input from agencies)