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| Cargo vessels operate at a grain export terminal in the Black Sea region as continued conflict raises concerns about global food supplies. |
Russian Grain Export Warning Raises Global Food Security Concerns
MOSCOW — July 31, 2026
Russia's main grain export industry group has warned that continued attacks on ships and port facilities in the Black Sea could disrupt grain exports, increase global wheat prices, and threaten food supplies in parts of Africa and the Middle East.
The warning comes as fighting between Russia and Ukraine continues to affect commercial shipping and agricultural infrastructure in the Black Sea. Both countries are among the world's largest grain exporters, making the region a critical source of food for many importing nations.
The Russian Union of Grain Exporters and Producers said drone attacks on cargo vessels and port infrastructure could eventually block export routes across the Black Sea. The organization warned that if exports are significantly reduced, global wheat supplies could tighten and prices could rise sharply.
According to the industry group, countries that depend heavily on Black Sea grain imports, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, would face the greatest risk. It said prolonged disruption could reduce wheat availability and increase the possibility of food shortages in lower-income nations.
The warning followed reports that a Ukrainian drone strike caused significant damage to a major grain export terminal at Russia's port of Taman. Ukrainian authorities did not publicly comment on that specific claim.
Ukraine has also accused Russia of threatening global food security. Ukrainian officials say repeated Russian strikes on commercial shipping near the port of Odesa have disrupted exports during an important harvest season.
Russia's Defence Ministry said its forces had targeted dozens of vessels linked to the Ukrainian military during the past week, including cargo ships. Ukraine has not independently confirmed those claims.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also said Russian attacks on shipping in the Black Sea were putting global food supplies at risk and urged European partners to help protect maritime trade routes.
The United Nations-backed Black Sea grain corridor, established after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, had previously allowed Ukrainian agricultural exports to continue through parts of the Black Sea. Recent military activity has largely halted its operation.
Russia's grain exporters' association estimated that wheat export losses could reach between 30 and 35 million metric tons this season if current conditions continue. The group also projected wheat prices could climb to between $340 and $370 per metric ton, with the possibility of exceeding $400 if disruptions worsen. These projections have not been independently verified.
The conflict continues to create uncertainty for global agricultural markets, with shipping security remaining a major concern for exporters, importers, and governments that rely on stable food supplies.
