EU Calls for Poland, Hungary, Slovakia to be Constructive on Ukrainian Grain Imports After They Keep Bans Despite EU Lifting Restrictions

The European Commission called on Poland, Hungary and Slovakia to be constructive after they said they would continue banning Ukrainian grain imports despite the EU lifting its ban.

Ukraine was a major grain exporter before Russia's invasion reduced its Black Sea shipping. It has since relied on exports through neighboring countries.

The EU banned imports from Ukraine to neighboring countries in May, but allowed transit if sold elsewhere. It let that ban expire Friday after Ukraine tightened export controls.

Poland, facing elections in October, said it would maintain its ban. Farmers are a key voting bloc for the ruling party.

The Commission said the focus should be making the new system work and countries should engage constructively. It is meeting with them Monday.