DISINFO: It is a lie that Russia is blocking wheat exports
SUMMARY
Russia is accused of starting a wheat blockade and wanting to cause famine, which is complete nonsense. It is a lie that Russia is blocking wheat exports.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative aiming to deflect Russia’s responsibility for the growing food crisis and supply insecurity.
Russia's responsibility for the global food crisis comes as a consequence of the unprovoked and unjustified Russian invasion of Ukraine: naval blockade of Ukrainian posts, bombardment of transport infrastructure and shelling of farming regions.
Russian warships have been blocking Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea, preventing the export of grain, which poses a risk to global food supply chains. Russia's invasion of Ukraine could soon cause a global food crisis that may last for years, the UN has warned. The World Bank calls it a human catastrophe.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destabilised global food markets and is driving food prices up due to increased cost of production, transport and freight insurance. Russia has destroyed substantial food stocks, production, as well as processing and transport capacities in Ukraine.
Moreover, Russia blackmails the world with the threat of a food crisis, Russian officials promise to ensure the passage of vital Ukrainian food exports through the Black Sea in exchange for the end of sanctions against it.