Ukraine Considers Rail Route Through Moldova Amid Port Attacks

Ukraine is exploring an alternative way to export grain through Moldova by rail due to increased Russian attacks on Ukrainian shipping and port infrastructure in recent months. The country's Agriculture Minister, Taras Vysotskyi, said Ukraine has lowered its grain export forecast for the 2026-27 season to 38 million-40 million metric tons from the previously expected 43 million tons.

The proposal involves transporting grain via Moldova to the Romanian port of Constanța with a 50% discount on the nominal rate. Ukraine has asked authorities in Chisinau for this low freight tariff, and discussions are ongoing between the two countries.

Moldovan Railways estimates that a transit rail corridor through Moldova could carry 4.5 million metric tons annually, providing up to 10% of Ukraine's exports. The need for a rail route has arisen due to Russian attacks on the Odesa port hub, which ships more than 90% of Ukraine's grain exports.