**The big picture:** MHP SE reported mixed Q2/H1 2026 financial results, with significant revenue growth driven by European expansion but a net loss primarily due to foreign exchange, while facing severe operational challenges in Ukraine. This highlights the dual pressures of global growth and geopolitical instability on international businesses. **Why it matters:** This case illustrates how geopolitical conflicts directly impact global supply chains and the stability of agricultural workforces, forcing companies to diversify operations and talent strategies to maintain resilience. **Between the lines:** - Revenue increased 32% to US$2.16 billion (H1), but the company incurred a US$57 million net loss due to an US$85 million foreign exchange loss. - European segment growth was boosted by the UVESA acquisition, with a planned controlling stake acquisition in Greek producer Th. Nitsiakos AVEE. - Ukraine operations face severe disruptions from Black Sea attacks, leading to increased logistics costs, congestion, and uncertainty for agricultural exports. **Staffing & HR impact:** Companies with international operations must adapt HR strategies to manage geopolitical risks, impacting talent mobility, supply chain workforce stability, and potentially increasing labor costs in affected regions. Diversification through acquisitions can mitigate regional workforce vulnerabilities. **The bottom line:** MHP SE's strategy underscores the critical need for global businesses to build resilient workforces and supply chains in an unpredictable world.