Myroslava Shcherbatiuk- Ambassador of Ukraine to Jordan

As the Ambassador of Ukraine to Jordan, I am proud to share Ukraine’s steadfast commitment to global humanitarian efforts, even during these challenging times for my country. Ukraine strongly believes in international solidarity and consistently demonstrates its dedication to peace and global crisis resolution. One of the most powerful examples of this commitment is Ukraine’s stance on Syria, a country ravaged by over a decade of war.

In a recent statement, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s readiness to assist Syria, underscoring our nation’s belief in humanitarian values. “We are ready to assist Syria in preventing a food crisis, particularly through the humanitarian program ‘Grain from Ukraine.’ I have instructed the government to establish food supply mechanisms in cooperation with international organizations and partners who can help,” the President stated. This reflects Ukraine’s recognition of the need for collective action to bring stability to the Middle Eastern region destabilized by years of conflicts.

Ukraine’s support for Syria is grounded in the humanitarian program “Grain from Ukraine,” a global initiative launched by President Zelenskyy in 2022. Despite facing devastating consequences from Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, Ukraine remains one of the world’s leading suppliers of agricultural products.

Within the framework of the programme, which is implemented in partnership with the World Food Programme, as of December 2024, Ukraine has sent 286,000 tons of agricultural products (wheat, flour, peas, corn, vegetable oil) to countries with the most complicated food situations – Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritania, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen.

Despite Russian aggression and constant threats of further attacks on our people, Ukraine remains resolute in ensuring Palestinians receive the essential supplies needed to alleviate their suffering. For this purpose, Ukraine supplied Palestine with 8,730 tonnes of flour and 751 tonnes of sunflower oil in 2024.

Syria, enduring years of war under Bashar Assad’s oppressive regime and severe economic hardship, now stands to benefit from this initiative. By providing critical food assistance, Ukraine seeks not only to alleviate immediate suffering but also to contribute to the stabilization of a region that has long been a battleground for geopolitical tensions.

Ukraine’s position on Syria goes beyond delivering aid—it is a call for global unity. The war in Syria, fueled by external forces including Russia and Iran, has created one of the most devastating humanitarian crises in modern history. By offering assistance to Syria, Ukraine is setting an example of how nations can work together to address shared challenges, even while facing difficulties at home.

This global perspective is critical in countering destabilizing actors like Moscow, which continues to fuel conflicts across the globe. Ukraine understands that stability in one region contributes to global peace, and instability anywhere distracts from solving other crises. For this reason, Ukraine calls on the international community to step up efforts to bring an end to the conflict in Syria and support stabilization in the region.

I believe Jordan and Ukraine share a deep understanding of the importance of humanitarian aid and regional stability. Jordan, as a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy and a host to millions of refugees, has demonstrated extraordinary solidarity with those in need. Ukraine, too, follows the same path of compassion and support, especially through initiatives like “Grain from Ukraine.”

It is clear that Ukraine’s assistance to Syria reflects a broader vision of global cooperation. President Zelenskyy’s call to action resonates deeply with the values we share as nations committed to humanitarian principles. “We call on everyone worldwide to join stabilization efforts to ensure that the war — ignited over a decade ago in Syria with the involvement of Iran and Russia — can finally come to an end,” he said.

As Ukraine supports Syria, we hope to inspire others to join us in addressing food insecurity and fostering peace. The interconnectedness of today’s global challenges requires shared responsibility and collective action.

Feeding the world holds profound significance for the Ukrainian nation, which survived the ‘Holodomor,’ a genocide by starvation perpetrated by Stalin and the Soviet Union 90 years ago. Annually, on November 25, Ukrainians commemorate 4.5 million of its victims. Today, when due to Russia’s war against Ukraine, people in other parts of the world are experiencing food shortages and rising food prices, Ukraine will not allow Russia to repeat this crime either to itself or to other countries, so grain supplies must and will continue.

Ukraine calls on all nations to work together in bringing lasting peace to Syria that has endured far too much suffering. It is only through collective effort and shared responsibility that we can build a better future for all.