How Ukraine Reclaimed the Black Sea and Revived Global Grain Exports
Ukraine has defied Russia’s naval dominance and revived its maritime exports through the Black Sea—especially grain—after a dramatic military and strategic turnaround in 2023. This shift not only boosted Ukraine’s economy but also helped stabilize global food security, The Gaze explains, citing United24 Media.
Before Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s Black Sea ports were vital trade hubs, exporting 154 million tons of goods in 2021 alone. However, the war disrupted these operations, with Russia seizing ports, bombing infrastructure, and blockading key sea routes.
The international community responded with the Black Sea Grain Initiative, but Russian interference—through constant inspection delays—made the agreement increasingly unviable.
Ukraine realized it needed to act alone. Its military began pushing Russian forces out of key positions: Snake Island was liberated, Kherson retaken, and Russian naval capabilities significantly weakened. Long-range missile strikes and advanced sea drones forced the Russian Black Sea Fleet to retreat from Ukrainian waters.
More than the destruction, it was the threat that changed everything. The Black Sea was no longer safe for Russia—its fleet was forced to retreat, with ships relocated to Russian and Crimean ports. Modified sea drones, now armed with anti-aircraft missiles and UAVs, continue to pose a serious danger. In one strike, they even took out two helicopters and ground equipment.
By summer 2023, Ukraine had secured a 22-kilometer maritime corridor, allowing ships to exit its ports and enter the territorial waters of NATO countries. Exports surged. In February 2024 alone, Ukraine exported 8 million tons of goods—including metals and ore, not just grain.
By the end of 2024, Ukraine’s total sea transshipment nearly hit 100 million tons, a dramatic recovery compared to 60 million the year before. This success came despite ongoing Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian ports—a clear effort to undermine the country’s export comeback.
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