UN says Russia’s war against Ukraine threatens global food security

The United Nations has warned that Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine poses a significant threat to global food security. During a UN Security Council meeting, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo highlighted the far-reaching consequences of the conflict. She emphasized that the war's ripple effects extend beyond Ukraine, putting global food security at risk due to attacks on grain infrastructure, civilian vessels, and ports.

Disruptions to commercial shipping in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov have further complicated agricultural exports. In August, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that the UN Food Price Index had reached its highest level since late 2022, indicating growing concerns. DiCarlo stressed that the impacts of prolonged disruptions would be particularly severe for developing nations that rely on imports and already face high levels of food insecurity.

She reiterated the UN Secretary-General's call for the freedom of navigation in line with international law and the protection of civilian ports and maritime infrastructure. The UN remains committed to supporting efforts that ensure a stable and predictable supply of food and fertilizers to global markets, DiCarlo concluded.