Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine could drive 49 million people into a state of famine or a state resembling it, as the war affects both food supply chains and prices.
German Minister for Agriculture Cem Özdemir sees Russia deliberately using hunger as a weapon to block access to Ukrainian ports. He says Russia’s warfare is particularly “disgusting.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, among others, has previously warned that millions of people could starve if Russia does not allow Ukrainian cargo out of ports.
“Alternative routes pay insanely,” Özdemir said, according to CNN.
– It would be kamikaze for Ukraine to trust (President Vladimir) Putin’s word without credible and effective military guarantees that the security of Ukrainian ports and ships is guaranteed.
Özdemir said he would not trust Putin’s word. It has become clear to him that Putin is a liar.
Ukraine usually exports about three-quarters of the grain it produces. Most exports take place by sea. However, Russia has now blocked access to Ukrainian ports, so grain in Ukraine’s possession cannot be exported to many countries that need it.
For example, the UN estimates that a war of aggression by Russia in Ukraine could drive 49 million people into a state of famine or reminiscent of it, as the war affects both food supply chains and prices.