Russia attacking Ukraine’s agricultural exports.
Russia attacking Ukraine's agricultural exports.
Russia’s Bombing of Ukraine’s Ports Disrupts Grain Exports
Last week, António Guterres, the UN’s secretary-general, expressed his dismay about Russia’s decision to repudiate a year-old deal that allowed exports of food crops from Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea. The consequences of this move are devastating, as it has caused a significant increase in grain prices, leaving many people hungry. To make matters worse, Russia has now resorted to bombing the ports around Odessa, further disrupting Ukraine’s grain exports.
Russia’s bombardment on the night of July 22nd was so indiscriminate that it hit one of Odessa’s cathedrals. On July 19th, another bombardment destroyed 60,000 tonnes of grain, and on July 24th, Russia targeted the port of Reni on the Danube river. This ruthless aggression has effectively halted Ukraine’s grain exports, which were primarily facilitated through Odessa’s ports.
Prior to Russia’s invasion, Ukraine exported approximately 45 million tonnes of grain annually, with about 90% of it passing through ports on the Black Sea. During the year that the grain deal was in operation, nearly 33 million tonnes were exported through Odessa’s ports. However, with these ports now under attack, alternative methods of transportation, such as road, rail, and river barge, have been increasingly utilized. Yet, as analyst Hanna Shelest points out, these alternatives are more expensive and slower in terms of logistics. Furthermore, the increase in land exports has led to a decline in grain prices in neighboring countries, causing frustration among farmers in otherwise friendly places like Poland.
Before the war, agriculture accounted for over 10% of Ukraine’s GDP and nearly 15% of employment. Despite the ongoing conflict, many farms are still operating, with the wheat harvest currently underway. Sunflowers will follow in early autumn, and maize a few weeks later. However, the destruction of Ukraine’s storage capacity due to Russian attacks has heightened the urgent need to find new outlets for their grain exports.
The repercussions of Russia’s actions extend far beyond Ukraine’s borders. The global community must take note of the devastating impact on the Ukrainian people, who are now facing increased food insecurity. Immediate support and assistance are needed to alleviate the suffering caused by Russia’s aggression. Additionally, long-term solutions are essential to ensure Ukraine’s agricultural sector can recover and flourish once again. It is imperative that the international community rallies together to condemn Russia’s actions and provide the necessary aid to those affected.
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In conclusion, Russia’s repudiation of the grain export deal and subsequent bombing of Ukrainian ports have dealt a severe blow to Ukraine’s agriculture sector, with devastating consequences for the country’s economy and food security. The urgent need to find alternative export routes and repair damaged infrastructure cannot be overstated. International intervention is crucial to address this crisis and support Ukraine on its path to recovery.
