Russia’s Grain Exports from Occupied Ukraine Surge
In a troubling development, Russia exported over two million tonnes of grain from temporarily occupied territories in Ukraine in 2025, generating approximately $400 million. This information was disclosed by Oleh Luhovskyi, the First Deputy Head of Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service, during an interview with Ukrinform. The grain primarily reaches consumers in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, raising concerns about the implications for global food security.
Grain Transport and Concealment Tactics
Luhovskyi detailed that the grain is transported via Russia’s “grain fleet,” utilizing seaports in Crimea and the occupied regions of Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk. This operation is part of a broader strategy to exploit the resources of these territories amid ongoing conflict. Intelligence reports reveal that Russia has established a “grain hub” in international waters at the Kerch Strait’s exit. Here, grain is transferred from smaller Russian bulk carriers to larger foreign cargo vessels, a tactic aimed at obscuring the grain’s origins.
The operation involves a fleet of 45 ships, including two storage vessels and around 40 coastal shipping vessels. Notably, 85% of these vessels are registered under Russian jurisdiction, which helps mitigate the effects of international sanctions. This strategic maneuvering not only facilitates the export of grain but also includes the shipment of other resources such as coal, coke, kaolin, iron ore, soda, and steel from the occupied territories. Luhovskyi reported that last year alone, over 200,000 tonnes of minerals and metallurgical products were shipped by sea.
International Response and Ongoing Investigations
As the situation unfolds, Ukrainian intelligence has identified 45 vessels implicated in the illegal export of Ukrainian grain from these occupied regions. The international community is increasingly aware of these activities, which pose significant challenges to global food supply chains and highlight the ongoing exploitation of Ukraine’s resources amid conflict. The ramifications of these exports extend beyond immediate economic concerns, potentially affecting food prices and availability in regions reliant on these supplies.
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With the ongoing conflict and the strategic significance of these exports, the situation remains dynamic. Continued monitoring and international scrutiny will be essential in addressing the implications of Russia’s actions in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
