ZAPORIZHZHIA REGION (Ukraine) – Ukrainian farmers are wearing body armor to cultivate their land in Zaporizhzhia, the region that borders Russia’s frontline.

One week later, grad rockets started falling just next to the fields where contract farmer Yuri was working.

The bulletproof vest and ballistic helmet provided to him by his employer enable him to drive a tractor wearing a bulletproof vest. This is the same kit that he used during military service. The farmers in his surroundings are now following his lead.

Yuri (41), and Oleksii (41) are committed to plowing the fields in spring despite increased shelling.

We go out and pass all the security checkpoints. Then we get on with our work. After filling up the gas tank, we head out into the field. If shelling is occurring, we will pack up and return to the office,” said Yuri.

Oleksii, aged 43, said that the Russian rocket attack was “scary”, but it is manageable since they are often at night. People inspect the areas after an attack and call experts if needed to remove debris and rockets.

Ukraine is world’s fifth largest exporter of wheat, and it ranks in the top 3 for sunflower seeds, maize barley, and barley. Food prices have risen around the globe because of the shortage of Ukrainian grain in world markets.

Ukraine’s agricultural ministry reported that spring crop sowing has reached 2.5 million hectares this year. That is 20% less than the anticipated area. The Russian invasion may have reduced spring sowing by 20%.

Russia describes its actions in Ukraine as a “special operations” meant to dearm Ukraine and defend it against fascists. The West and Ukraine claim that this is a pretext to President Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked war on aggression.