UN World Food Programme Warns of Food Security 'Disaster' Due to Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

"Severe Food Crisis in the Middle East and Africa"
Over 13 Million People Face Food Security Threats

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] David Beasley, Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), warned that Russia's invasion of Ukraine could cause a severe global food security disaster. There are particular concerns that hunger will worsen in Middle Eastern and African countries highly dependent on Ukrainian grain.

On the 29th (local time), Beasley warned at a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) briefing, "In the coming months, we will witness a disaster beyond disasters," adding, "This war could cause a severe food crisis in Middle Eastern and African countries such as Yemen, Egypt, and Lebanon."

According to WFP data, Middle Eastern and African countries have a very high dependence on Ukrainian grain. Egypt relies on it for 85%, Lebanon 81%, and several others show over 80% dependence. Due to the war, Ukrainian grain exports have become difficult, and missing the sowing season risks reducing harvest yields, raising serious concerns about disruptions in food supply to the Middle East and Africa.

Beasley pointed out, "Ukraine and Russia account for 30% of the world's wheat supply, 20% of corn supply, and 75-80% of sunflower oil supply," adding, "Half of the grain we purchase is from Ukraine." He continued, "Due to rising prices of fuel, food, and logistics, we have already begun reducing food distributions for children and their families in several countries worldwide, such as Yemen," noting, "In Yemen, distributions for 8 million people have been cut in half and could drop to zero."

Wendy Sherman, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, who also attended the UNSC meeting, strongly criticized Russia, stating, "Vladimir Putin's war is dangerously impacting global food security beyond Ukraine's borders and driving up prices for food supplies," and added, "Russian forces are threatening the safety of key ports where food shipments occur." According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), more than 13 million people are reported to be at risk of food insecurity as a result of this invasion.

In response to these Western criticisms, Russia immediately denied the claims. Vasily Nebenzya, Russia's Ambassador to the UN attending the UNSC meeting, rebutted, "Russian forces have never threatened the freedom of civilian navigation," and argued, "The food crisis is due to Western sanctions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.