Is the Russian Blockade of Ukrainian Grain Really Over?
Many people rely on Ukrainian grain, making Russia's blockade of Ukrainian ports all the more harmful. Will the grain, however, reach the market now that a deal has been made?
Many businesses and people rely on grain grown in Ukraine. That is why Russia's blockade of Ukrainian ports could have disastrous consequences. However, now that a deal has finally been reached, will the grain reach the market?
Ukrainian Grain
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Data, Ukraine is the world's fifth-largest exporter of wheat, fourth-largest exporter of corn, and the top exporter of sunflower oil. That is why it’s been called the “breadbasket of Europe.” Wheat and grain gets exported all over the world, but particularly to Africa, which is yet another reason why Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is so damaging.
To make matters even worse, the Horn of Africa is experiencing unprecedented drought. That grain must now simply leave Ukraine. The United Nations assisted in arranging for Russian warships to allow grain-carrying ships to leave the Black Sea. The agreement will let Ukraine export roughly 22 million tons of grain.
Where Is the Grain Going?
On August 17th, the first ship bound for Africa set sail. It was stocked with World Food Program cargo bound for Ethiopia. Previously, however, each ship had a different destination. They planned to visit Turkey, Iran, South Korea, China, Ireland, and Italy. Furthermore, far too little grain has been moved. Only 700,000 tons of food had left Ukrainian shores by mid-August. That may sound like a lot, but not when you consider that 20 million tons remain trapped in Ukrainian silos.
Lip Service from Russia?
So, is Russia only allowing just enough grain to be exported so they can avoid further sanctions? UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, “there is a long way to go before this will be translated into the daily life of people at their local bakery and in their markets. Supply chains are still disrupted, and the energy and transportation costs remain unacceptably high.” Another concerning trend is that the grain is not always going where it is supposed to go.
The first ship to leave Ukraine was destined for Lebanon. Instead, it made its way to Syria, a Russian ally. On Russian ships, Syria also receives stolen Ukrainian grain. While the existence of the agreement is a positive step forward, it would be rash to assume that the problem has been completely solved.
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