Russia's Agricultural Crunch Sparks Food Price Fears Amid Ukrainian Drone Strikes

A severe squeeze on Russia's agriculture has led to a looming food crisis, with reports suggesting that every fifth farmer is facing bankruptcy. Anton Gerashchenko, a former Ukrainian official, posted on social media that 'due to record low prices, it's more profitable to throw away part of the harvest than to harvest it.' He shared video clips showing idle machinery and piles of grain left on the soil.

The claims reflect the impact of Ukrainian long-range drone strikes on Russia's oil refining capacity, causing acute diesel shortages in the main grain regions at the peak of harvest. Fuel prices have more than doubled in some areas, with supplies rationed or delayed for weeks. Small and medium-sized farms, which produce most of Russia's grain, are hardest hit.

Logistical bottlenecks in the Azov and Black Sea have driven domestic wheat prices below production costs in many districts. Offers as low as 11,000-12,000 rubles a tonne leave farmers unable to cover rising expenses for fuel, fertiliser, parts, and high-interest loans.

Industry voices warn that further closures would shrink production capacity and push up food prices for Russian consumers. The Kremlin continues to insist that fuel stocks are adequate and the harvest remains on track.