Sen. Blunt Expresses Fears Of Global Food Shortage

The United States Capitol Building on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images)

Food crisis fears are intensifying as the war in Ukraine continues to wreak destruction on ports, rail transportation, and farms. In the two months since Russia began their invasion, troops have cut off Ukraine’s access to the Black Sea by occupying and blockading ports where an estimated 4.5 million tons of grain can’t be loaded. Missouri Senator Roy Blunt warns that we could be witnessing a food disaster in the making.

Central MO Info · 22 0506 Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO) On Blocked Ukrainian Ports

Ukraine and Russia account for 25 percent of world wheat, 20 percent of world corn, and 90 percent of sunflower oil. Blunt says it’s not just about inflation.

Central MO Info · 22 0506 Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO) On Increased Risks Of Global Food Shortage

The White House announced last month it would draw down the full balance of the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust as part of an effort to provide food assistance to several countries impacted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The $282 million withdrawal will go toward procuring food commodities to support emergency efforts in six countries in eastern Africa and the Middle East experiencing severe food insecurity.