On October 4, 2026, Poland and Romania announced that they do not intend to expand the transit of Ukrainian grain through their territories. This decision comes amid the blockade of the Black Sea, which complicates the export of agricultural products from Ukraine.
Reasons for Refusal
Warsaw and Bucharest justify their decision by prioritizing their own farmers. Romania's Minister of Agriculture Barna Tanchos noted that the surplus of Ukrainian grain, combined with low water levels on the Danube, is already overloading the country's ports. This, in turn, complicates the ability of Romanian farmers to sell their products.
Additionally, the Polish Ministry of Infrastructure confirmed that it does not plan to implement any changes that would facilitate an increase in the transit of Ukrainian agricultural products through their territory.
Consequences for Ukraine
According to Ukraine's Minister of Agricultural Policy Taras Vysotsky, currently, less than half of the Ukrainian exports can be transported via European rail, road, and river routes. If the blockade continues, it may result in up to 35 million tons of grain remaining in Ukraine, and sowing areas could decrease by 35-40%.
International Reaction
This situation has raised concerns among international organizations monitoring food security. They are calling for the search for alternative routes for exporting Ukrainian grain, as delays in its removal could lead to global repercussions in the food market.