Russia declares emergency as wheat exports hit 16-year low

Russia has declared a regional emergency in Rostov as drone attacks cripple key grain-export routes, sending wheat shipments plunging to their lowest level in 16 years.

The region produces almost 10% of Russia’s grain, but farmers are now facing a severe export crisis after vital ports were forced to close.

Vital grain routes grind to a halt

Ports around the Sea of Azov have reportedly stopped operating since mid-July following drone attacks. The routes previously handled up to 1.5 million tonnes of grain each month, while major Black Sea terminals were also shut after being hit by drones in August.

Russian Grain Union president Arkady Zlochevsky said the situation for farmers was “very bad”, with shipments through the Azov basin completely halted.

SovEcon estimates more than 80% of Russia’s grain-export capacity has now been paralysed by the disruption.

Wheat shipments collapse

The impact is already showing in Russia’s export figures. Wheat shipments fell to just 1.9 million tonnes in August — the lowest monthly level in 16 years.

That represents a 2.3-fold drop compared with August 2025 and is 2.6 times below the five-year average. The Russian Agriculture Ministry is preparing state grain purchases while searching for alternative export routes, including through Arctic ports.

But industry figures warn there is currently no realistic replacement for the Black Sea network.

A wider food shock looms

The disruption is extending beyond Russia. Ukraine has struck grain terminals at Novorossiysk, a major Russian export hub that handles more than 40% of the country's grain shipments, with exports suspended while repairs take place.

Russia has simultaneously intensified attacks on Ukrainian Black Sea ports, threatening another crucial source of global agricultural supplies.

With both countries central to international grain markets, a prolonged shutdown could send shockwaves through food supply chains — raising the prospect of higher prices and renewed pressure on vulnerable import-dependent countries.

The war is increasingly being fought not just on the battlefield, but through the infrastructure that keeps the global food system moving.

Russia declares emergency in key agricultural region