The war in Ukraine has brought a lot of issues to the forefront of the global stage, but in America, one issue that has been a bit more hidden is the prospect of famine. Frankly, it’s not an issue for the U.S. The nation isn't reliant on Ukraine wheat, but there are several countries that are. Specifically, Ukraine wheat production affects nations in Africa, and those nations would have a harder time replacing this import even if other nations step up to the plate. Ukraine wheat exports seem to pale in comparison to the destruction Europeans are facing because of the war, but the potential food scarcity situation is also no joke. Without an end to this conflict, the death toll could rise farther and wider than you might think. Related read: What American Veterans Fighting in Ukraine Need to Know Before Going

How Much Wheat Does Ukraine Produce?

Ukraine wheat was on the rise before the war, reaching 33 million metric tons in 2021, as opposed to 26 million metric tons in 2020, according to Illinois University’s farmdoc daily. This represented a larger-than-usual yield and noted growth from Ukraine wheat fields. Corn and wheat exports from Ukraine in the 2021/22 marketing year were 20% lower than projected before the conflict. Initial concerns of significant declines in exports for 2022/23 have not been realized, but market prices remain high. This comes as continued concerns of sending Ukraine grain to Africa is at risk because of the logistics surrounding the war. Volatility in markets will continue and grain from Ukraine to Africa will also continue to have issues reaching those who need it so long as the war continues. Suggested read: Ukraine and Russia WWI Treaty Casts Large Shadow Amid Current Crisis

African Leaders Voice Their Concerns and Call for Peace

African leaders visited Ukraine to discuss ending the war with Russia and ensuring food and fertilizer deliveries to their countries. Their visit was marked by an air raid, highlighting the very real threat of war that persists and the challenges these nations face. The delegation, including leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Zambia, and the Comoros Islands, visited Bucha, a symbol of Moscow's brutal invasion of Ukraine. Separate meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin were planned for the African peace mission. Officials from Uganda, Egypt, and Congo-Brazzaville represented diverse African perspectives on the war and wished to speak with Russia about a peace option. Some nations, like South Africa and Senegal, have refrained from criticizing Moscow, while others, such as Egypt, Zambia, and Comoros opposed Russia in a UN resolution condemning the invasion. Ukraine-African relationships have been complex, as have the ties to Moscow that have been in place since the Cold War when the Soviet Union supported their anti-colonial efforts. During their visit to Bucha, the delegation paid tribute at a memorial near a mass grave site. Shortly after, air raid sirens sounded in Kyiv, and an explosion was reported in the Podilskyi district. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated that the Russian missiles conveyed a message of more war, not peace. The Ukrainian air force claimed to have shot down several Russian missiles and drones without disclosing the specific locations. Adding to the idea of peace not being an option just yet, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that Germany would provide Ukraine with 64 Patriot missiles to enhance its defense against ongoing Russian airstrikes. The African leaders aim to initiate a peace process and explore payment options for fertilizer exports from Russia, amid international sanctions. They also plan to discuss increasing grain shipments from Ukraine and the potential for prisoner swaps. Ukraine grain to Africa continues to avoid major U.S. headlines, but the potential of food scarcity anywhere is a problem for all. There are many reasons the War in Ukraine should end and the ability to provide affordable, accessible essentials is yet another one.

How Much Wheat Does the U.S. Import from Ukraine?

According to the World Food Program Chief, the United States is purchasing 150,000 metric tons from Ukraine. The grains will be purchased not just to help bolster Ukrainian trade, but in an effort to provide access to those that are missing this valuable food source. Africa and Ukraine have a weirder-than-usual relationship at the moment, especially considering its interest in purchasing necessary commodities from its enemy, Russia. But there are mouths to feed and lives to save. Ukraine wheat may not mean much to us, but it’s an important consideration for saving lives in other countries. Read next: The 29 U.S. Allies of NATO