Ukraine offers to supply food to Syria post-Assad, signals readiness to restore relations

Ukraine, a major global exporter of grain and oilseeds, has expressed readiness to supply food to Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Vitaliy Koval confirmed this intention in an interview with Reuters on Friday, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to humanitarian support.

“Where it is difficult, we have to be there with our food. We are open to supplying our food, and if Syria needs food—then we are there,” Koval stated.

Syria previously relied on Russian wheat imports during Assad’s tenure, but shipments have been suspended amid uncertainty surrounding the new government and delays in payments, according to Russian and Syrian sources. It remains unclear how Damascus will navigate relations with Moscow under new leadership.

Ukraine’s agricultural exports were significantly disrupted by Russia’s February 2022 invasion, which imposed a de facto blockade on Black Sea ports. However, Kyiv has since revived shipments from Odesa, resuming its role as a major supplier to Middle Eastern markets.

While Ukraine traditionally exports wheat and corn to the region, direct shipments to Syria have been minimal. Traders report only about 6,000 metric tons of Ukrainian corn reached Syria in the 2023/24 season, compared to a total export volume of 29.4 million tons.

Kyiv has also signaled a broader diplomatic intention. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha affirmed Ukraine’s willingness “to pave the way for the restoration of relations in the future and reaffirm our support for the Syrian people.”