'Famine around the world' Ukraine war threatening 400m people as Russia blocks grain

THE ongoing conflict in Ukraine could lead to "famine around the world" and a "hunger crisis" as Russia's forces block wheat and cereals supplies for the whole world.

Matthew Hollingworth says Ukraine war threatening food supply

Millions of tonnes of grain are stuck in due to military action and if Odessa port did not open, the world would potentially face “famine”. In light of the warning, WFP Ukraine Director Matthew Hollingworth argued for the creation of “a global food alliance” as he warned if a solution is not found, “we will see a massive hunger crisis grow around the world”. “ He said "silos filled with grain should have already left the country” as he added that the current food crisis could have “an impact on 400m people” around the globe.

Mr Hollingworth said: “We need a global food alliance to really look at this issue.

“And we need to understand that if we don’t find a solution, not only farmers here in Ukraine suffer and potentially fail.

“But we will see massive, massive food insecurity crisis, hunger crisis grow around the world.

He added: “Unfortunately there is not just enough food leaving this country to help the rest of the world.

WFP Ukraine Director Matthew Hollingworth warning

WFP Ukraine Director Matthew Hollingworth warning (Image: @bbclysedoucet)

Cargo ships transporting grain at Odessa port before beginning of Russian invasion

Cargo ships transporting grain at Odessa port before beginning of Russian invasion (Image: GETTY)

“And there is not enough assistance yet coming in to help the people of Ukraine who are suffering the crisis.

“We see a situation globally today where a country that produced more than 10 percent of the world’s export of cereals is now exporting a trickle.

“We’re seeing silos across the country filled with grain that should have already left.

“And we’re seeing a potential impact on 400 million people around the world who eat bread that comes from wheat grown in this country.

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WFP Ukraine Director Matthew Hollingworth discussing impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on food export

WFP Ukraine Director Matthew Hollingworth discussing impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on food (Image: @bbclysedoucet)

Ukraine produces 10 percent of the world’s export of cereals

Ukraine produces 10 percent of the world’s export of cereals (Image: GETTY)

“So yes, it is a very serious situation.

“And right now we’re not seeing the kind of export that we would image should happen even in a situation like this.”

He also pointed out: “There are overlands opportunities through Europe to other ports in the region.

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Ukraine grain production

Ukraine grain production (Image: GETTY)

“But again, unfortunately, it’s not enough for us to really see a big change right now in the world’s food security situation”.

WFP Director in Germany Martin Frick said that million of tonnes of grain is now stuck in Ukraine due to seaports being blocked by Russian military action.

He added: “None of the grain can be used right now. It is just sitting there”

“The world urgently needs these items of food from Ukraine”.

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