Since Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine and the blockade of Ukrainian seaports, Ukraine has been unable to export its produce to destinations around the world via the usual routes. This situation threatens global food security; alternative routes were needed urgently. 

As part of the EU's solidarity response with Ukraine, the European Commission presented its Solidarity Lanes Action Plan, to help Ukraine export its produce via rail, road and inland waterways. Since August, the Black Sea Grain Initiative brokered by the UN, has enabled additional grain exports via maritime routes.

Today, the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes have become the lifeline of Ukraine's economy. In addition to transporting grain, they are currently the only option for Ukraine to export all of its non-agricultural goods to the rest of the world, and to import what it needs, such as fuel and humanitarian assistance.