Farmers work near the frontline under constant threat of shelling
As a result of the Russian aggression in the Kherson region, 17 farmers have been killed and over 70 injured. Local farmers are forced to work under constant shelling and coordinate every trip to the field with the military. This was reported by Ukrinform citing Rivnenska OVA, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Issues of agricultural sector security and potential enterprise relocation were discussed during a meeting between representatives of the Kherson region and authorities of the Rivne region. Currently, farmers’ work in frontline areas involves mortal risk: many farms are located within 20–30 kilometers from the contact line.
According to Dmytro Yunusov, Head of the Department for Agricultural Development and Irrigation of the Kherson OVA, due to prolonged hostilities, only a third of the region’s arable land remains accessible for use. Russian occupation forces systematically destroy agricultural machinery, crops, and infrastructure.
The main challenges for Kherson farmers include difficult demining conditions, logistical obstacles in transporting produce from dangerous areas, and the threat of drone attacks. To minimize risks, farmers are required to coordinate movement routes with Ukrainian military units and use personal protective equipment, such as body armor.
Despite the difficult situation, many entrepreneurs do not abandon their farms, although some are considering moving their business to safer regions. Relocation remains a complex process, as it involves transporting not only equipment but also staff and their families, while the fields themselves remain under constant threat.
Deputy Head of the Rivne Regional State Administration Oleksandr Kokhan emphasized that the Rivne region is ready to continue supporting the affected area. Currently, Rivne region has programs for equipment cost compensation, partial reimbursement of loan interest, and subsidies for fuel and livestock procurement, which are already used by 39 relocated enterprises.
Illustrative photo: Geoff Charles / CC BY-SA 4.0
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