Invasion of Locusts: Ukraine's Agricultural Crisis Amidst War

Ukraine is grappling with an acute locust invasion that endangers its agricultural output, especially sunflower crops. The country is the largest exporter of sunflower oil globally, but the ongoing war with Russia obstructs conventional pest control strategies, according to officials and agricultural producers.

Compounding the crisis are record-high temperatures and the absence of birds, which are natural predators of locusts. Ukraine's strategic regions, including Zaporizhzhia, are hardest hit, with farmers witnessing the decimation of up to a third of their crops. Local and government bodies have yet to release data on the precise extent of the damage.

The invasion is exacerbated by Russia's 2023 destruction of the Kakhovka dam, creating swamplands ideal for locust breeding. Ukrainian authorities blame Russia's aggression for the escalating situation, highlighting the intertwined challenges of warfare and environmental stress.

(With inputs from agencies.)