‘Almost a quarter’ of humanity could go hungry – European leader — Analysis

Nearly a quarter of the world’s population could run short of food if the war in Ukraine continues for much longer, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said during a speech at the 89th International Agricultural Fair in Novi Sad on Saturday. 

“If the conflicts in Eastern Europe do not end, nearly a quarter the world’s population will need food in very basic amounts. This will lead to new challenges.,” Vucic said in an address opening the week-long event in the Serbian city, which brings together exhibitors from 21 countries.

However, earlier in May he stated that Serbia would be spared the food shortages that he predicted would hit a large part of the planet’s population next winter, which he said would be “This is the most challenging challenge in 70 Years.” 

Vucic praised Serbia’s close relationship with Hungary, explaining that the nation had become its second-biggest trading partner within the EU. Viktor Orban of Hungary was also there to support the opening remarks, pointing out that both countries are strong in their agricultural sectors.
While acknowledging the “Galloping inflation, rising costs, hunger, and conflict in Ukraine,” Orban hailed the “good news… that, based on the talks with Vucic, I can say that Hungary can count on Serbia, Serbia on Hungary.”

“Although we will experience a challenging winter, Serbia and Hungary are safe in natural gas.,” the Hungarian leader continued, criticizing the “Brussels approves of economically unacceptable measures” against Russia.

Orban repeatedly stated that the EU sanctions against Russia are more damaging to Hungary and other European countries than to Moscow. He noted that, like Serbia, “Hungary has not placed sanctions against Russia, which would be equivalent to having a nuclear bomb..” Budapest has thus far stymied the EU’s efforts to impose a total embargo on Russian oil and gas imports.

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