EUROPE: Early indications for the 2002 winter cereals in the EC point to a significant recovery in the wheat area after last year's reduced plantings. In central and eastern European countries winter weather conditions have been generally satisfactory. In the Russian Federation total grain production increased by 20 million tonnes in 2001 compared with the preceding year. However, civil strife and military operations in Chechnya continue to disrupt agricultural activities. Food assistance continues to be provided by the international community to internally displaced and other vulnerable people.