Ukraine to deliver food aid to post-Assad Syria

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to deliver humanitarian food aid to Syria after the fall of former regime leader Bashar al-Assad. Partnering with international organizations, Ukraine aims to prevent a food crisis in Syria, which is facing supply disruptions because of ongoing instability.

Why it matters

Ukraine, a leading global exporter of grains and oilseeds, has not previously exported to Syria, which relied heavily on Russian wheat during Assad’s regime. With Russian supplies now suspended because of payment delays and logistical issues, Ukraine’s initiative could provide crucial support to Syria as it navigates this transitional period.

Key details

• Ukrainian initiative: Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is ready to assist Syria through its humanitarian program, Grain from Ukraine, aimed at preventing hunger in countries facing crises.

• Russia’s withdrawal: Under Assad’s rule, Syria imported substantial quantities of Russian wheat. However, shipments have been halted because of uncertainty and financial difficulties, according to sources in both countries.
• Ukraine’s grain exports revived: Although Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 initially disrupted Ukraine’s Black Sea grain exports, the country has successfully reopened shipping routes from Odesa, bypassing a de facto blockade.

What’s next?

Zelenskyy directed his government to work closely with international organizations and partners to establish efficient food supply mechanisms for Syria.

This move positions Ukraine as a potential key player in Syria’s post-Assad recovery, offering both humanitarian and strategic support.