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'We Don't Know How We Will Survive:' Ukraine's Vital Grain Exports Crippled
Newser • • world
Key Points:
- Southern Ukraine has a strong grain harvest this year, but exports are severely hindered by ongoing conflicts affecting Black Sea ports and shipping routes, impacting global grain supplies.
- Attacks on Ukraine's main ports and risky shipping lanes have caused buyers to retreat and led to a crash in prices for Ukrainian farmers, leaving many unable to store crops or fund the next planting season.
- Ukraine's grain exports in August reached only about 20% of normal levels, while Russia's exports dropped to a 10-year low due to similar challenges and sanctions.
- Alternative export routes such as road, rail, and the Danube River are limited and face additional obstacles like conflict and drought, further restricting grain shipments.
- Aid organizations warn that without a renewed grain corridor agreement, both farmers' livelihoods and global food security are at significant risk.
