The Russian invaders export grain from the temporarily occupied territories in Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhia regions. Approximately one and a half million tons of grain were concentrated here for sowing and domestic consumption. Several hundred thousand tons have already been stolen and exported to Russia. This was stated by First Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine Taras Vysotsky on the national marathon.
"Russians use the tactics of the early 20th century with theft of grain and its export from Ukraine. Today we have confirmed the fact that several hundred thousand tons of grain were exported in total from the Kherson, Zaporizhia, Luhansk, and Donetsk regions. In these areas, the farm stocks formed for sowing and processing (for making flour, baking bread), are about one and a half million tons of grain. This is a significant stock. At international prices, it costs hundreds of millions of dollars. And there is a great risk that it will simply be stolen and taken away in favor of Russia," Taras Vysotsky said.
He also stressed that there were no strategic reserves in the occupied territories. The oblasts stored the grain needed for consumption in these areas until the new harvest.
"Therefore, we can talk primarily about the genocide of the Ukrainian people, not a blow to the economy," said Taras Vysotsky.
All theft facts are recorded and documented as evidence in international courts to obtain full compensation for direct and related losses, and the return of funds to the Ukrainian economy.
Vysotsky assured that Ukraine has grain stocks within the controlled territory for two years. Balances are exported. Due to the blocking of ports, the ministry is finding new logistics routes, including rail. One of the new routes is through Romania, the port of Constanta. Corridors through Poland and the Baltic ports are also being developed.
"Alternative routes for Ukrainian exports continue to develop. There is currently no internal deficit. After the liberation of the territories, we will be able to provide them with food. What can't be said about international food security," Vysotsky assured.
Before the war, Ukraine was among the top 5 suppliers of grain and oilseeds, feeding up to 400 million people worldwide. Now the Russians have effectively blocked this supply. Therefore, there is a significant increase in prices in international markets, and food shortages.
