Zelenskiy launches Ukraine’s 'Grain from Ukraine' initiative for Syria

Suspended Russian wheat supplies prompt Ukraine’s humanitarian food assistance to Syria through partnerships

KYIV:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Saturday that he had instructed his government to establish mechanisms to supply food to Syria, in collaboration with international organisations and partners.

The initiative aims to address potential food shortages following the fall of President Bashar Al-Assad’s regime.

Ukraine, one of the world’s largest exporters of grain and oilseeds, has traditionally supplied wheat and corn to various Middle Eastern nations, but has not been involved in supplying Syria.

During Assad’s rule, Syria primarily imported food from Russia. However, Russian wheat supplies have been suspended due to payment delays and ongoing uncertainties, as reported by Russian and Syrian sources.

Zelenskiy expressed Ukraine’s readiness to assist Syria in avoiding a food crisis, particularly through the humanitarian programme "Grain from Ukraine." He confirmed that his government would coordinate with international organisations and partners to facilitate these supplies.

Ukraine's ability to maintain its exports was significantly impacted by Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, which resulted in a blockade of key shipping routes via the Black Sea. Despite this, Ukraine has managed to circumvent the blockade, reviving exports from its southern ports, including Odesa.

As Ukraine continues its efforts to support countries like Syria, the ongoing war with Russia remains a significant challenge. The invasion, which began in February 2022, has devastated Ukraine's infrastructure, with widespread destruction across cities and villages.

Despite heavy losses, Ukraine has received substantial military and economic support from Western allies, including the United States and the European Union.

The conflict has sparked global concerns over energy supplies, food security, and international relations, particularly with the ongoing grain shortages exacerbated by Russia’s blockade of Ukrainian ports.

The war’s outcome remains uncertain, but Ukraine's resilience in maintaining its economy and agricultural exports has been a critical part of its strategy to withstand the Russian offensive.