According to today's USDA Grain Transportation Report, on Monday, July 17, Russia refused to extend the agreement that has allowed Ukraine to export grain from its Black Sea ports for the past year (Reuters).
Brokered by Turkey and the United Nations, the Black Sea Grain Initiative has allowed Ukraine to export 33 million metric tons (mmt) of corn, wheat, and other grains despite Russia’s wartime blockade.
In marketing year 2022/23, Ukraine was the fifth-largest exporter of wheat worldwide, exporting over 13.5 mmt.
On July 18, the U.S. Agency for International Development announced an additional $250 million in support of Ukraine’s agricultural sector—including grain elevators, trans-shipment facilities, and port and border infrastructure.