Zelensky asks Hungary to reopen rail corridor for Ukrainian corn shipments

Three years after its introduction, the EU's emergency grain-import restriction has lost its impact, failing to curb prices or shield Hungarian producers while disadvantaging the country's food industry. In a four-way meeting in Brussels, Volodimir Zelenszkij explained that Russian attacks have closed the Black Sea route, prompting him to seek logistical assistance from regional partners, including Hungary. He specifically asked that sealed rail wagons carrying Ukrainian corn be allowed to pass through Hungary to Western Europe.

Magyar Péter responded that, provided the cargo merely transits, there is no obstacle to reopening the corridor and described the encounter as a historic step for bilateral ties. The discussion also covered the swift adoption of a minority-education law by the Ukrainian parliament, which both sides will monitor in the coming months. Overall, the leaders agreed to revisit the import ban and explore new avenues for cooperation.