Ukraine live briefing: At least 25 dead from Russian strikes
Washington PostFEB 25 2023
The Facts
The European Commission on Friday decided not to extend an embargo on Ukrainian grain exports to five EU countries — setting up a clash with some of those involved.
The agreement, reached earlier in the year, prevented Ukrainian grain from being exported to Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria after farmers complained that an influx of grain deflated local prices and hampered their livelihoods, prompting their governments to impose unilateral bans until the EU stepped in.
Now that the EU ban has been lifted, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary have already pledged to reintroduce their own restrictions — technically in violation of EU law. "We will extend this ban despite their disagreement, despite the European Commission’s disagreement," Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki told a campaign rally on Friday. "We will do it because it is in the interest of the Polish farmer."
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
This is a welcome decision by the EU. It demonstrates that Ukraine and the bloc can cooperate effectively to reach important agreements. This is a demonstration of the trust and unity between the two.
Establishment-critical narrative
The EU's decision goes against the interests of its internal market and will cause price instability for millions of farmers. That is why Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia have promptly acted to impose their own restrictions.