Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut reports that fuel shortages are impacting Russia's agricultural sector despite directives from President Vladimir Putin.
Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut stated on Friday that nationwide fuel shortages are creating pressure on Russia’s agricultural sector. Despite a directive from President Vladimir Putin to ensure sufficient supplies for the harvest and planting seasons, Oksana Lut noted that some regions are experiencing rough patches. The fuel bottlenecks were caused by Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries, leading to a strict delivery schedule for farms. While large producers have stockpiled enough fuel to finish their harvests, smaller independent farmers are facing high prices on the spot market. Additionally, an unusually cold spring and prolonged rains have delayed the harvest in southern Russia by up to two weeks. Oksana Lut confirmed that farmers have harvested over 21 million metric tons of grain so far, though operations remain behind schedule on approximately 12% of the total sown area. To reduce diesel dependence, Lut urged farmers to consider transitioning to natural gas-powered vehicles and hybrid-engine equipment. These shortages, combined with restricted shipping in the Sea of Azov, have contributed to rising global wheat prices.