Moldovan Farmers Threaten Protests Over Ukrainian Grain Transit
Moldovan farmers are planning to hold large-scale protests if their demands regarding Ukrainian grain transit are not met. The farmers' association 'Farmers' Force' has issued an ultimatum, demanding that the authorities reconsider a decision to grant Ukraine a discount on rail freight transportation by August 21.
The head of the association, Alexandru Slusari, has already met with Prime Minister Vasile Tofan to discuss the farmers' concerns about preferential rail transit for Ukraine. According to Slusari, Moldovan farmers suffered significant losses in 2022-2023 when poorly organized transit from neighboring countries blocked exports of domestic goods.
Slusari recalled that Moldovan farmers had to sell their products at prices significantly below production cost during the previous crisis. He emphasized that the current situation cannot be allowed to jeopardize exports, and that farmers are seeking to participate in discussions on organizing Ukrainian cargo transit.