Attacks by the Ukrainian Armed Forces disrupted the harvest in Crimea

In occupied Crimea, this year is expected to yield one of the best grain harvests in recent years thanks to favorable weather and sufficient rainfall. However, the harvest campaign may be at risk due to a severe fuel shortage faced by local farmers.

This was reported by Krym.Realii.

Farmers on the peninsula may see a high grain harvest in 2026, but harvesting it is in question due to a lack of fuel. According to a Crimean agronomist, weather conditions this season have been nearly ideal for grain crops. Temperature conditions supported normal plant growth, and regular rainfall ensured a high-quality harvest. Average yields are expected to reach at least 25 centners per hectare.

According to data from the Russian Ministry of Agriculture of Crimea, the gross grain harvest in 2026 could reach 1.5 million tons.

However, despite the optimistic forecasts, farmers are facing a serious problem—a fuel shortage on the eve of the harvest. According to the expert, many farms have already exhausted their reserves and do not have a clear understanding of how to carry out the harvest campaign.

He also expressed doubts about the occupying authorities’ ability to quickly resolve the issue. In his assessment, the situation with logistics and supplies on the peninsula remains difficult, which calls into question the effectiveness of the promised support for the agricultural sector.

Field fires could pose an additional risk to the future harvest. The expert notes that due to delays in the harvest and the operations of mobile air defense units, there is a risk of mature crops catching fire.

Ukraine continues to strike at the Russian shadow fleet, which is used to transport grain from the occupied territories of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions via the occupied peninsula. Seized dry cargo ships not only block illegal shipments but also replenish the state budget after being sold at auction. 

Анна Літман