Volodymyr Varbanets

Ukrainian farmer near Odesa and head of the Odesa Region Association of Farmers and Private Landowners. He runs the Makytra farm, growing crops including wheat and barley, and has spoken about how export disruptions and low grain prices threaten farmers’ ability to cover costs.

Russia’s Port Strikes Leave Ukrainian Grain Trapped and Farms Near Insolvency

Russia’s attacks have closed Ukraine’s Black Sea ports, leaving grain piling up in barns and at risk of rotting before it can be shipped. Farmer Volodymyr Varbanets estimates his farm may last six months without a route to market, but not a year, as it struggles to cover taxes, fuel and spare parts. Strikes on power infrastructure add pressure as the region prepares for winter.

Financial TimesOct 5, 20263 min read