Economic advisor reveals White House concern over famine overseas caused by Russia-Ukraine conflict.

• The Russia-Ukraine war is causing concern among the Biden administration about famine in certain regions of the world, as stated by Council of Economic Advisers Chair Cecilia Rouse in an interview with CNBC on Friday.
• Rouse highlighted that this is a significant issue, particularly affecting parts of the Middle East, Africa, and Far East.

Cecilia Rouse, the White House Council of Economic Advisers Chair, expressed concern that Russia's invasion of Ukraine could lead to famine in certain regions of the world on Friday, according to CNBC.

On "Closing Bell," Rouse stated that Russia and Ukraine are crucial to the global food supply as significant producers of wheat, soybeans, and other agricultural commodities.

The conflict is making it harder to cultivate and sell these vital crops. Additionally, rising energy and fertilizer costs exacerbate the issue.

Rouse expressed to CNBC that there is a significant issue, stating, "We are collaborating with international aid organizations to provide humanitarian aid due to our concerns, particularly in the Middle East, parts of Africa, and the Far East, about food shortages and famines in those regions."

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has exacerbated food prices, following two years of pandemic-related disruptions. It is estimated that the global health crisis has led to a rise in the global population experiencing food insecurity.

The United Nations' World Food Programme reports that Russia and Ukraine account for approximately 90% of the wheat imported to East Africa, which is a cause for concern.

Despite the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the UN had already predicted that around 13 million people in the Horn of Africa were experiencing severe hunger daily prior to the invasion. The region is currently facing a severe drought that has negatively impacted crop production and livestock populations in countries such as Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, according to the UN.