Ukraine Tries Rail Route Through Moldova as Russian Attacks Hit Grain Exports

Ukraine is seeking alternative routes to export grain due to increasing Russian attacks on its sea trade routes. The country has approached Moldova about using rail transport through their territory, with a proposed discount of 50% on freight costs. Ukrainian officials believe that this new route could provide around 10% of the country's total exports.

Moldovan Railways has already offered to provide guarantees on the volume of grain transported, and negotiations are ongoing between the two countries. The potential for exporting 4.5 million tons of grain annually through Moldova is being discussed. This comes after Ukrainian estimates suggested that a functioning transit corridor could provide about 10% of the country's total exports.

Agricultural products make up over 90% of Ukraine's total exports, and Russian attacks have severely impacted this trade. The Ukrainian Agriculture Minister has lowered the grain export forecast for 2026-2027 due to these attacks.