EU warns of global food crisis due to Black Sea blockade

European Union officials have expressed alarm over a new blockade in the Black Sea resulting from the war in Ukraine, warning of a potential global food security crisis. During a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Ireland, high representative Kaja Kallas noted that Russian attacks on grain ships could trigger a worldwide impact on food supplies.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot warned of a ‘triple disaster’ if a coordinated solution is not found: the collapse of Ukrainian state revenue, a global food crisis in Africa, and increased mass migration flows toward Europe.

Since July, intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports and vessels have hindered the export of corn, barley, and wheat to international clients such as Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Yemen, and Indonesia. While Ukraine previously exported 6 million tons of agricultural and steel products monthly through the ports of Odessa, Chornomorsk, and Pivdenny, it is currently utilizing alternative solidarity corridors to move approximately 4.5 million tons.