Black Sea Attacks Threaten Global Food Security

Russia's main grain lobby group has issued a warning about the impact of Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian ships and ports in the Black Sea. The attacks, which began in July, could soon lead to a complete blockage of export corridors in the region.

The Union of Grain Exporters and Producers says that the consequences of these attacks will be felt by many countries in the near future. They estimate that the shortfall in supply of Russian wheat this season could reach 30-35 million metric tons, accounting for around 15 per cent of total global wheat trade.

The group warns that disruptions to shipping in the Black Sea caused by Ukrainian attacks on dry cargo vessels and port infrastructure pose a direct threat to global food security. They say it will not be possible to cover the shortfall by increasing exports from alternative countries.