Ukrainian farmers rebuild agriculture near front lines with international aid

Farmers in the Sumy Oblast region of Ukraine are rebuilding their agricultural businesses following repeated attacks by Russian forces.

These producers face constant threats from missiles and drones, which have destroyed barns, killed livestock, and incinerated machinery. Despite the physical destruction and the risk of losing future investments, many farmers continue to plant and harvest to sustain their livelihoods and local economies. The Ukrainian government and international humanitarian organizations are providing targeted assistance to help these producers recover.

Organizations like Prosper Global deliver grants for machinery, grain storage sleeves, and agricultural inputs to those working near the front lines. This support helps farmers bridge the gap between their personal savings and the high costs of replacing destroyed equipment. In Sumy Oblast, farmers like Volodymyr Starychenko and Volodymyr Karpenko have faced direct strikes on their land. After losing livestock and infrastructure to Russian strikes, these individuals have used aid to purchase essential tools like grain dryers.

These farmers also coordinate with neighbors to share resources and manage the challenges of falling grain prices and rising fuel costs. The agricultural sector faces significant hurdles, including a potential grain storage shortfall of up to 11 million tonnes by November 2026. While the war has lowered rural incomes and reduced harvests for many, the continued operation of these farms provides jobs and tax revenue for nearby communities.