In brief
Ukrainian forces launched a massive drone and missile strike on Russia’s Novorossiysk port, damaging two grain export terminals and Russia’s largest Black Sea naval base. The attack killed three people, including an eight‑year‑old child, and injured 24 others. Russia is redirecting cargo to alternative ports while concerns mount over how the fighting threatens global grain supplies. The incident highlights the broader conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with wide‑rippling effects on food trade.
Ukrainian drones strike Russia’s major grain ports
In the early hours of Wednesday, Ukrainian forces carried out a massive drone and missile attack on the Russian port of Novorossiysk on the Black Sea. The strike hit a naval base that had replaced Sevastopol and knocked two of Russia’s biggest grain export terminals out of commission.
The attack claimed three lives, including an eight‑year‑old child, and injured 24 more. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the operation as unique and said it aimed to strike the Russian fleet’s support infrastructure.
Russia has begun rerouting cargo to Baltic, Caspian and inland routes, citing new logistical constraints. The move could cut the country’s August wheat exports by more than half – a blow to global food markets.
The incident comes as Russia continues to conduct strikes on Ukrainian shipping and as the Black Sea region sees more frequent exchanges of heavy fire. The conflict’s toll on grain trade threatens already‑tight supplies in North Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
Read more: Ukraine | War in Ukraine
