The Administrator of the United States Agency For International Development (USAID) Samantha Power Vows Continued Support for Ukraine’s Resilient Farmers Amidst Russian Aggression.
In the aftermath of Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain initiative, Administrator Samantha Power addressed a gathering of Ukrainian farmers at the Port of Odesa on July 19. Farmers recounted the challenges they faced, including landmines deployed by the Russian military and the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, exacerbating the difficulties caused by the renewed Black Sea blockade. Despite these adversities, the farmers remained resolute in sustaining their livelihoods, powering Ukraine’s economy, and contributing to global food production.
Tragically, that very night, Russia bombed the port of Odesa, causing severe damage to the buildings where discussions had taken place.
Since July, the Kremlin’s relentless attacks on Ukraine’s Black Sea and Danube river ports have targeted civilian infrastructure, resulting in over 160 facilities damaged and more than 300,000 tons of grain destroyed. This deliberate strategy aims to undermine Ukrainian livelihoods, cripple the economy, and wield hunger as a weapon of war, exacerbating the global food crisis.
In response, the United States, through USAID, launched AGRI-Ukraine in July 2022, committing $350 million and mobilizing an additional $250 million from partners. Administrator Power announced efforts to secure an additional $250 million from the private sector, foundations, and other donors. The initiative focuses on bolstering Ukraine’s agricultural production and assisting farmers in the face of Russia’s unprovoked war.
To date, remarkable progress has been made. Collaborating with the Ukrainian government and the transport and logistics industry, USAID is facilitating the development of alternative transport routes and providing essential equipment to expedite grain transportation. Efforts include increasing the capacity of ports along the Danube River and upgrading border control points, with the goal of enhancing grain export capacity by 2.5 million tons annually.
Administrator Power highlighted USAID’s contribution to creating 1.5 million metric tons of grain storage, preventing rotting while awaiting shipment. Partnerships with private sector entities like Bayer and Corteva have ensured that over 30 percent of Ukrainian farmers receive the necessary financing, seeds, and fertilizer to sustain their businesses and plant future harvests.
These investments not only empower Ukrainian farmers to resist Russia’s aggression but also represent a commitment to Ukraine’s long-term future as a global breadbasket. Administrator Power reiterated the unwavering support of the United States for Ukraine’s fight for freedom, pledging continued solidarity in the face of adversity.
