The article examines the conceptual foundations and practical mechanisms for implementing Ukraine's food diplomacy in the countries of the South Asian region in the context of full-scale Russian aggression. The strategic role of Ukraine as a key supplier of agricultural products, on which the political stability of the demographically loaded countries of the region directly depends, is determined. The main challenges facing Ukrainian agricultural exports are identified, in particular, the destruction of logistics chains in the Black Sea basin and the attempts of the Russian Federation to instrumentalize food shortages for political purposes. The sharp contradiction between the high demand of the countries of South Asia for stable supplies and the limited logistical capabilities of the warring state is outlined.

Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the humanitarian initiative «Grain from Ukraine» as a tool of «soft power», which contributes to the formation of a positive image of Ukraine in the Global South and the conversion of economic presence into political support at the level of the UN General Assembly. The initiative «Grain from Ukraine» is a key tool of modern Ukrainian foreign policy, which transforms agricultural potential into a powerful diplomatic asset. This case should be considered not just as charity, but as a strategy of humanitarian presence. Ukraine's transition from the «clean trade» model to active food diplomacy as a tool of «soft power» and security dialogue is revealed.

The study substantiates strategic vectors for future cooperation, including: transitioning to long-term government-to-government (G2G) agreements, developing shared storage infrastructure, and implementing agrotechnological transfers. It is concluded that strengthening institutional engagement with South Asian countries is a prerequisite for neutralizing Russian influence in the region and ensuring a sustainable strategic partnership. The research identifies a direct correlation between the stability of food supplies and the level of diplomatic support for Ukraine within the UN.

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