Increase in Attacks in the Black Sea May Raise Food Prices

The recent clashes in the Black Sea have created an extremely dangerous situation for sailors. The attacks between Russia and Ukraine jeopardize the safety of commercial vessels, while the negative impacts of these conflicts on food exports are also increasing. In July, the death toll from attacks in this region reached the highest number recorded since the war began. This situation has made the Black Sea one of the most dangerous commercial waterways in the world.

According to the Turkish Maritime Workers' Union, 23 sailors lost their lives as a result of attacks on 35 vessels in July. The attacks not only endanger the lives of sailors but also create serious impacts on food security. Following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia launched attacks on port infrastructure and vessels to halt the country's grain exports. In July, renewed attacks were carried out on the main grain export centers in Odesa and Chornomorsk.

The retaliatory attacks carried out by Ukraine further complicate the situation. Drones were used in attacks on vessels belonging to a fleet that Russia uses to evade sanctions. This situation jeopardizes maritime traffic in the region and increases concerns about rising food prices in the Black Sea. Analysts predict that this tension will negatively affect international food prices.

Russia is the world's largest grain exporter. A significant portion of this country's grain production is exported to the Middle East and North Africa. However, due to the attacks in July, there has been a significant decrease in Russia's grain exports. Additionally, Ukraine's grain harvest this year is expected to be lower than anticipated. As a result, an increase in food prices is expected, negatively affecting countries dependent on grain imports such as Turkey and Egypt.