UN warns of global food crisis

United Nation has warned of a food a global food due to Russia Ukraine war which may last for years

The United Nations has warned that Russia's aggression in Ukraine could lead to a global food crisis in the coming months and last for years. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that rising prices could worsen food insecurity in poorer countries.

He added that if Ukraine's export trade is not restored quickly, the world could face a famine that would last for years. The conflict has cut off exports from Ukraine's ports to sunflower oil, as well as cash commodities such as corn and wheat.

This has reduced global supply and increased the price of alternative goods. According to the United Nations, global food prices are about 30% higher than the same period last year. Speaking in New York on Wednesday, Mr. Guterres said "the conflict could lead to millions of people suffering from food insecurity, including malnutrition, hunger and starvation."

"There is enough food in the world now if we work together. But if we do not solve this problem today, we will face a global food shortage in the coming months," he added. He warned that an effective solution to the food crisis would not be possible without re-integrating Ukraine's food production, as well as Russian and Belarusian fertilizers, into the global market.

"Strong security requires the goodwill of all parties for economic and financial impact," he said.