Post-Release: “Heart of Earth” Event Illuminates Ukraine’s Pivotal Role in Global Food Security and Highlights the Importance and Challenges to Agricultural Recovery Amidst Russian Aggression

Ukraine’s Role in Global Food Supply Chains

As a top exporter of essential grains, Ukraine has long held a key role in feeding populations worldwide, particularly in regions like the Middle East and Africa. Russia’s invasion, which disrupted Ukraine’s agricultural production and blocked Black Sea ports, has severely impacted global grain markets. Mentioning that Russian aggression became a major shock on Ukrainian economy and agriculture in particular, with 30% of the sector being basically ruined, Oleh Nivievskyi, Associate Professor, Center for Food and Land Research, Kyiv School of Economics noted however, that “Ukraine’s trade with the EU has increased substantially, now accounting for approximately 60% of its total trade,”underscoring Ukraine’s adaptation in establishing new trade routes to sustain exports.

Panelists reiterated that Ukraine’s agricultural contributions reach far beyond its borders. The interruption of Ukrainian grain exports led to a surge in food prices globally, a strain on vulnerable regions, and disruptions across supply chains. The ongoing conflict has led to cumulative economic losses, with Oleh Nivievskyi stating, “The damages to the Ukrainian economy are described as enormous and unbearable for the country to handle alone.” This sentiment emphasized the urgent need for international support to bolster Ukraine’s agricultural output.

The Ecological Impact of War and Kakhovka Dam Disaster

The discussion underscored the severe ecological impact of the war, particularly following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam. “The explosion on June 6, 2023, led to one of the largest ecological catastrophes in modern history,” independent strategic analyst, Andriy Bilenkyi, explained, referencing the flooding and habitat loss that resulted from the dam’s collapse. This environmental disaster decimated irrigation systems essential for Ukraine’s southern regions, where water scarcity already poses a challenge for agriculture. Speakers highlighted how these destroyed systems will require years to rebuild, complicating Ukraine’s ability to restore pre-war production levels and compounding its economic hardships.

Demining: A Crucial Step in Agricultural Recovery

A major theme of the event was the necessity of demining efforts to enable safe cultivation on Ukraine’s farmlands. The vast scale of land contamination poses a significant risk to agricultural revival, with approximately 23-25% of Ukrainian territories potentially affected by mines and unexploded ordinances. Richard MacCormac from the Danish Refugee Council outlined the daunting task ahead, noting, “The contamination in Ukraine poses significant challenges for both military and humanitarian demining efforts, complicating the safe removal of dangerous materials.” He stressed that demining will require both time and resources, potentially taking years to fully clear the land and ensure safe farming conditions.

Panelists highlighted the importance for coordinated and transparent efforts, with Iana Okhrymenko, Senior Economist, Center for Economic Strategy  noting that “demining in Ukraine is heavily financed by International donors, international organizations, foreign governments. 
For the most recent news, right now there are talks about creating a kind of demining market in Ukraine through procurement platform ProZorro, to make sure that the processes are transparent and accountable The urgency of prioritizing demining for agricultural areas was also emphasized, as the contamination affects not only food production but also the livelihoods of millions who depend on farming.

Strategic Reforms and Investments for Ukraine’s Agricultural Future

Beyond immediate recovery, the event underscored the importance of strategic reforms to attract private investments essential for rebuilding Ukraine’s economy. Reforms focused on public administration standards, transparency, and alignment with EU benchmarks are seen as vital for facilitating Ukraine’s EU accession and strengthening its agricultural resilience. The decision to adopt European Union standards and practices as part of their transformation strategy for the agricultural business in Ukraine was highlighted as a crucial step in fostering long-term stability, despite the ongoing conflict.

Experts called for structured international support to attract private sector investments, secure logistical supply chains, and improve export facilities, warning that “the future of global food security hinges on Ukraine’s ability to restore and expand its agricultural production.” With nearly $10 billion in agricultural damages, Ukraine’s recovery demands robust global partnerships, innovative solutions for demining, and economic investments to stabilize both local and global food systems.

A Call to Action for Sustained International Support

As Ukraine approaches nearly 1000 days of resilience amid aggression, this event served as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of global food systems and the critical role Ukraine plays within them. Nataliia Popovych, Chairperson of Ukraine House in Denmark, closed the event with an appeal to the international community: “Ukraine’s farmers and agribusinesses are investing against the odds, but meaningful support from the international community—whether through direct aid, private investment, or policy support—is essential to stabilize the region and counteract food insecurity globally.”

The Heart of Earth event highlighted the need for ongoing solidarity and proactive engagement to restore Ukraine’s agricultural capacity. With coordinated global support, Ukraine can continue to play its vital role in feeding the world, and in doing so, reinforce stability within global food systems.