Ambassador of Ukraine to Cyprus: The ‘Grain from Ukraine’ initiative and the country’s contribution to global food security

On the occasion of the Food Security Summit, held in Kyiv on 23 November, Ukraine's Ambassador, to Cyprus Ruslan Nimchynskyi, talks about how, despite the immense challenges posed by the war, Ukraine has sustained its agricultural exports to the benefit of other countries around the world.

The Ambassador also talks about the aims and progress of the "Grain from Ukraine" initiative and looks ahead to what challenges remain for Ukraine’s grain exports and shares his thoughts on the prospects for Ukraine’s ongoing contribution to global food security.

Ukraine has historically been a key player in the global grain market. How has the ongoing war impacted your country’s potential to contribute to global food security?

Ukraine has long been known as the “breadbasket of Europe”. But its role extends far beyond its boundaries. Ukraine has been one of the world's largest exporters of wheat, corn, and sunflower oil. Prior to the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022, Ukraine provided food to over 400 million people worldwide. Many countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia are heavily dependent on Ukrainian grain for their food security. Before the war, Ukraine was responsible for 10% of the global grain market, exporting over 60 million tonnes annually.

Despite the immense challenges posed by the war, Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable resilience in sustaining its agricultural exports.

The war has severely disrupted Ukraine’s agricultural exports. Ports were blockaded, infrastructure damaged, and farmers faced immense challenges. This posed a direct threat to global food security, particularly in developing nations that rely on Ukrainian grain. The Black Sea Grain Initiative and other efforts have helped, but challenges remain.

Although the war endangered Black Sea export routes, alternative pathways via the Danube River, rail, and a new "humanitarian corridor" have allowed Ukraine to export nearly 4 million tonnes of grain since August 2023 alone. These efforts are critical, as Ukrainian grain feeds millions worldwide, especially in regions vulnerable to food insecurity.

Can you elaborate on the "Grain from Ukraine" initiative and its objectives?

"Grain from Ukraine," launched by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in November 2022, is the humanitarian initiative and aims to address acute hunger in vulnerable regions, particularly in Africa and Asia. This initiative operates in collaboration with international partners, including the United Nations World Food Programme, and facilitates the delivery of Ukrainian grain to countries most affected by food crises. Over the past year, Ukraine has shipped substantial quantities of grain to nations such as Ethiopia, Sudan, and Yemen, directly supporting millions of people.

Why is this initiative so important right now?

The initiative addresses two critical issues. First, it helps alleviate hunger in vulnerable regions like Ethiopia, Sudan, and Yemen, where millions face famine-like conditions. Second, it reinforces Ukraine's commitment to global stability despite the ongoing conflict. It shows that Ukraine is not only defending its sovereignty but also upholding its responsibility as a key player in global food security.

What has been the international response to "Grain from Ukraine"?

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Many countries and international organisations have provided financial and logistical support to help sustain this effort. The initiative has received widespread support from many parts of the world. It`s seen as a beacon of hope and resilience, demonstrating how international solidarity can address global challenges. Over 20 states and the European Union have financially contributed to the initiative, and more countries are willing to join. The support has been instrumental in ensuring that the grain reaches those who need it the most.

In early September of this year a thematic international Conference was held, in online format, to review the implementation of the Food Security paragraph of the Peace Formula. The event was attended by representatives of 75 partner countries and international organisations from different regions of the world.

Based on the decisions of the high-level Peace Summit, held on June 15-16, 2024 in Switzerland, and on the elaborations of the Food Security Working Group, the participants in its Joint Communiqué have committed to continue supporting jointly with the World Food Programme the "Grain from Ukraine" humanitarian initiative as an indispensable mechanism in addressing global food insecurity, providing emergency response to the most vulnerable populations and alleviating suffering in areas facing conflict and food price increases.

And in practical terms, what is the impact of the initiative so far?

Since its launch, the "Grain from Ukraine" initiative has successfully delivered over 170,000 tons of grain to countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Yemen. This has been crucial in alleviating food shortages and preventing famine in these regions.

Overall, in 2023-2024, Ukraine exported 69.86 million tons of grain, oilseeds and oil. In particular, the country managed to increase wheat exports to Africa by 41% and sunflower oil exports by 153%.

Looking ahead, what are the future plans for the "Grain from Ukraine" initiative?

The initiative aims to expand its reach and send at least 60 ships from Ukrainian ports to countries in need. There are also plans to build grain hubs in Africa to facilitate the distribution of agricultural products across the continent. The goal is to save millions of people from hunger and contribute to global food security.

Ukraine sends a powerful message of resilience and responsibility. Despite enduring immense hardship, the country remains committed to feeding the world. "Grain from Ukraine" is not just about food—it’s about hope, solidarity, and the interconnectedness of global challenges and solutions.

How has Ukraine managed to adapt its grain export infrastructure during the conflict?

The adaptability of Ukraine’s agricultural sector has been extraordinary. With Russia's withdrawal from the UN-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2023, Ukraine established a new export corridor along the western Black Sea coast through Romanian and Turkish waters. This corridor leverages shallow waters less accessible to Russian vessels. Additionally, Ukraine has developed alternative transport routes, including rail and truck networks, to mitigate the impact of port blockades.

What challenges remain for Ukraine’s grain exports?

The primary challenges include securing safe shipping routes, funding the initiative, and overcoming logistical hurdles due to the war. To overcome these, continuous international support is essential. Strengthening partnerships, ensuring compliance with international shipping agreements, and addressing infrastructure issues are key steps.

The Russian war has inflicted significant damage on Ukraine’s grain storage and transportation infrastructure, with missile strikes targeting ports and facilities. Freight costs have risen, and the risks for traders operating in Ukraine remain high. The need to restore and increase the production capacity of the Ukrainian agricultural sector has been challenged by the enormous problem of mined farmland.

Despite these obstacles, Ukraine expects to export around 50 million tonnes of grain and oilseeds from its 2023 harvest. However, ensuring the safety of export routes and reducing logistical costs are ongoing priorities.

Looking ahead, what are the prospects for Ukraine’s contribution to global food security?

As Ukraine continues to innovate and secure alternative export routes, its grain sector is poised to remain a cornerstone of global food security. Support from international partners, both financial and logistical, will be essential. The resilience of Ukraine’s agricultural industry is a testament to its enduring role in combating global hunger and stabilising food markets worldwide.