The war in Ukraine has been raging for more than a year, and the tragic consequences continue to shock and devastate. This conflict has led to the closing of ports; delays in rail and road routes; and, worst of all, an enormous human toll.

Now, a major dam in Ukraine was destroyed, and water is inundating the southern part of the country. The Wall Street Journal reports that the flood has drenched numerous grain-storage facilities while leaving many farms with no water at all. One asparagus farmer is quoted as saying that his crop relies on water from a canal that’s fed by the reservoir, so his production is likely to be obliterated. Most farmers and food producers will have to wait for the waters to recede before they fully understand how much their crops are affected.

This is devastating news for Ukrainians, but it also has global implications: Ukraine exports a huge amount of its agriculture, and Russia’s invasion has already “sent prices of grains and other produce sharply higher, adding to global food inflation and worsening food shortages,” the Journal article continues. “This year, Ukraine’s grain and oilseed output was already expected to drop 36% compared with 2021, the year before fighting broke out, and nearly 8% compared with last year’s reduced crop.”

In addition, the industrial chemicals and other hazardous material spread by the deluge will damage ecosystems and biodiversity, according to Reuters. In this story, Mohammad Heidarzadeh, a civil engineer in the United Kingdom, explains that the floods will bring more disruption to agricultural supply chains while the mud left behind will take years to clear.

Recalibrating our global supply chains

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia — and its numerous implications — are highly complex matters. To better understand these and many more important supply chain topics, be sure to attend ASCM CONNECT 2023: North America, September 11-13, in Louisville, Kentucky. One expert in particular who can shed light on Russia’s history of antagonistic behavior toward Ukraine is keynote John J. Sullivan, former United States Ambassador to Russia. Among other topics, Sullivan is sure to provide some much-needed context about the war.

Another keynote is the distinguished Elliot Harris, chief economist for the United Nations (UN). He’s spent his career developing policies that reduce poverty and increase equity, and he possesses a deep understanding of macroeconomics. Despite the current uncertainty present in Ukraine, the country has strived to maintain a steady economy with the help of the UN — but there’s still a long way to go. 

Next is futurist Amanda Manna, vice president of enterprise at Singularity University. She prepares organizations for the future through tailored learning programs, strategic narrative development, facilitated ecosystem connections and other customized services. Her keynote will shed light on what to prioritize in your supply chain planning.

And finally, Frankie Mossman, chief customer officer at supply chain logistics company Overhaul, will share her unique perspectives about global manufacturing environments. Mossman’s comprehensive supply chain knowledge will also help you prepare from the bottom up for whatever is on the horizon.

Don’t miss a minute of ASCM CONNECT 2023: North America. From essential educational sessions to tech talks and innovation labs, hands-on workshops and ample networking opportunities, this is a chance to learn from the best, expand your network and gain a competitive edge. Register today!