In a promising development for Ukraine's agricultural exports, Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov announced that five more ships are en route to Ukrainian sea ports using a newly opened corridor. This alternative arrangement comes in response to Russia's blockade of the Black Sea grain deal. The vessels are expected to export approximately 120,000 metric tons of Ukrainian grain to Africa and Europe. Earlier on Sunday, three bulk carriers - Azara, Ying Hao 01, and Eneida - departed Ukrainian ports using the temporary corridor established by the Ukrainian Navy.

These vessels were carrying 127,000 tons of agricultural products and iron ore. The reopening of the Black Sea ports, initially closed by Moscow after invading Ukraine, was made possible by a deal brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022. However, Russia exited the agreement a year later and reinstated the blockade due to dissatisfaction over the terms for its own food and fertilizer exports. The latest developments mark a significant step towards restoring Ukraine's position as one of the world's leading grain suppliers. The country's ability to navigate this blockade and find alternative export routes reinforces its resilience in the face of geopolitical challenges.