Ukraine may struggle to meet domestic and export wheat demand in the future if Russian attacks on food infrastructure and blockage of sea export routes continue, according to the United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP).

Ukraine’s agricultural sector has already suffered $40.2 billion in damages and losses since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. If these attacks continue, the agricultural production outlook will be significantly impacted, potentially leading to wheat production being unable to meet domestic and export demand.

One in five Ukrainian families is facing severe food insecurity, as they are cut off from accessing markets to buy food and farmers report that they can no longer produce enough food. Ukraine made up 9% of global wheat exports, 15% of maize, and 44% of sunflower oil before the war.

UN officials are trying to revive the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which Russia quit in July after it was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. Ukraine has launched a temporary corridor for agricultural exports, allowing for the shipment of over 700,000 tonnes of grain from Ukrainian ports.

Ukraine holds a significant position as a global food producer due to its vast and fertile agricultural lands. The country boasts rich black soils, known as Chernozem, which are highly fertile and conducive to crop cultivation. These soils offer excellent water retention, nutrient content, and structure, providing optimal conditions for diverse crops. Ukraine’s favorable climate, with sufficient rainfall and sunlight, further enhances its agricultural productivity.

The nation is a major exporter of grains, such as wheat and corn, contributing substantially to the global food supply. The combination of fertile soils and favorable climatic conditions positions Ukraine as a key player in the global agricultural landscape.

The protracted war is forecasted to continue to drive up global food prices while also resulting in an increasingly dire situation for those African countries which lack food security.