Russia’s War on Ukrainian Trade Is a War on Global Food Security

Russia is systematically strangling Ukraine's ability to feed the world. By targeting ports, shipping lanes, and agricultural infrastructure, it is not just waging war on Ukraine-it is weaponising hunger against millions in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. With 7.8% of the global population already facing hunger, this assault on trade routes risks tipping vulnerable regions into famine.

Before the Russian full-scale invasion, Ukraine provided 15% of the world's corn exports, 10% of wheat, 15 - 20% of barley and 50% of its sunflower oil. Now, as Ukraine enters its harvest season, Russia's attacks have halved grain exports compared to last year, driving up global food prices. By October, Ukraine may run out of storage-leaving over 9 million tonnes of grain to rot while farmers lack the funds to plant next year's crops. If this harvest is lost, the ripple effects will affect food supplies well into 2027.

The consequences extend far beyond Ukraine. Disruptions to trade, energy, and fertiliser markets-compounded by crises like the Middle East conflict-are pushing fragile economies to the brink. Millions who can least afford it will face soaring food prices and shortages.

This is no accident. Russia has repeatedly used food as a weapon, from blockading Black Sea ports to bombing inland logistics. The Black Sea alone handles 90% of Ukraine's agricultural exports-and without safe passage, the world's most vulnerable will pay the price.

The EU's Solidarity Lanes have provided critical alternative routes, but Ukraine also needs safe and reliable access to Black Sea ports. The EU's current focus is also on providing additional grain storage, developing financial solutions for Ukrainian farmers and coordinating cross-border transport to make the Solidarity Lanes as efficient as possible. But these measures can only mitigate the consequences. They cannot substitute for safe navigation in the Black Sea.

Only a ceasefire and safe Black Sea navigation can avert a further worsening of the situation.

Ukraine has repeatedly offered a just and lasting peace, beginning with a full ceasefire. Russia has refused-escalating attacks instead. Access to food must never be a weapon.

The international community must demand:

1. An immediate moratorium on strikes against grain infrastructure, ports, and shipping.
2. Safe passage for commercial vessels to restore Black Sea trade.
3. A full and unconditional ceasefire leading to just and lasting peace.

A ceasefire leading to peace is needed to end the daily suffering of Ukrainians, and it is in the interest of everyone who depends on a stable, open and predictable global food system. If Russia ends its war and stops the killing, people around the world stand to benefit, starting with greater food security. Let us help make peace a reality in Ukraine by increasing pressure on Russia to negotiate and bring the war to an end.

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