Ukraine Considers Rail Route Through Moldova Amid Ongoing Sea Disruptions
Ukraine is exploring an alternative to shipping grain by sea due to ongoing Russian attacks on its ports, which have disrupted exports. One potential solution is transporting grain through Moldova via rail, a route that could provide up to 10% of Ukraine's annual grain exports.
The idea has been proposed as a more secure option than using the Black Sea, where Ukrainian ships have come under increased fire from Russian forces in recent months. Exports by sea have already seen significant disruptions, with estimates suggesting that Ukraine may only reach its revised export target of 38-40 million metric tons for the 2026-27 season.
Moldova's infrastructure minister visited Ukraine on Monday to discuss improved rail links and transit arrangements, which could see Ukrainian grain transported through Moldova to the Romanian port of Constanța. The country has already provided rail transport for Ukrainian grain in the past, with a potential annual capacity of 4.5 million metric tons.
Ukraine is seeking a discounted freight tariff from Moldovan Railways, which would bring costs down by 50%. However, Moldova has countered by asking Ukraine to provide guarantees on the volumes of grain it will transport through the country.