The war one year on: Solely with Ukraine
This picture was taken over a year ago, shortly after Russia’s unprovoked and unjust invasion of Ukraine, my home country. I remember the shock and sadness I felt as I watched distressing footage of Russia’s indiscriminate shelling, which has led to the killing of countless civilians and a mass exodus of people on a scale not seen since the Second World War.
The one-year anniversary of the start of the full-scale war was a sad commemoration. Ukraine was once again on the front pages this February 24, but for Ukrainians the war has been a daily reality since the first explosions rang in Kyiv on that dreadful day.
Farmers have shown incredible fortitude in continuing to grow and minimize the impact of the war on food security. I’m proud of my company’s values-based decision to withdraw from Russia shortly after the invasion.
Business is not right in a war that’s wrong
As I said in a recent interview with Politico, Corteva’s decision to withdraw despite the financial cost enables us to stand tall and reflects our commitment to our core values. I explained how I have no regrets over closing the business in Russia and believe other firms should do the same.
Companies who continue to operate in Russia often cite food security arguments but in fact they are financing the war machine. Food security is a convenient argument for them, but we prefer to focus on food security for Ukraine and the rest of the world.
Food is a basic human right, so where is this argument when Russian forces destroy Ukrainian grain storages, agricultural machines, steal Ukrainian grain and block Ukrainian ports, depriving not only Ukrainians but also people in other countries of food? If we think that food should not be used as a weapon, then why support Russia by doing business and paying taxes which fund the military potential of the aggressor?
Solely with Ukraine
Corteva has been supporting Ukrainian communities and agriculture since the start of the war – including with monetary donations – and will continue to do so for as long as necessary.
Recommended by LinkedIn
Our initiatives and projects include:
And we have been encouraging agricultural producers to cooperate with responsible partners by emphasising our company’s solidarity with Ukraine, including through our Solely with Ukraine campaign and video.
I have huge admiration for farmers in Ukraine who are continuing to show such strength in unthinkable circumstances. The resolve of the Ukrainian farmers who’ve never stopped farming is truly outstanding.
We at Corteva are supporting Ukrainian farmers with sustainable solutions and are committed to annually expand seed production, increase investment in sustainable technologies and provide them with expanded access to innovative crop protection products. This will enhance food security at this difficult time and support the Ukrainian economy.
Delivering for farmers
Colleagues in Ukraine have been working hard to deliver for farmers in the country, as they continue to perform day-to-day operations to support agriculture production in Ukraine.
Our seed plant continues to operate – with the safety of our employees our top priority – and has even managed to increase production despite constant missile attacks. The site has also seen a growth in yield, the introduction of new technologies, and a 16-fold increase in exports compared to previous years. These results are testament to the resilience and dedication of the team there and I can’t thank them enough for their efforts.
Amid the chaos and uncertainty of February 24, 2022, some expected the war to be over in a few days, with Ukraine unable to withstand the sheer force of the Russian aggressor. Much remains to be seen in how the war will unfold. But Ukrainians are strong and remain strong one year later and I have no doubt that we will emerge victorious once again.