Russian authorities have implemented nighttime shipping restrictions at the Novorossiysk port, a vital hub for the country’s grain and oil exports, due to drone attacks. Sources indicate that these restrictions were communicated verbally and lack an official document for shipping companies. However, the port continues to operate normally during daytime hours, and grain shipments are currently unaffected.
Novorossiysk is the largest port in Russia by cargo turnover, responsible for approximately one-third of the nation’s grain exports, along with the export of oil, metals, and containerized goods. The new nighttime restrictions follow similar measures taken in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. On July 21, Russian authorities banned ships from anchoring in areas without air defense systems in the ports of Azov and Caucasus.
Novorossiysk has become a key route for grain exports redirected from the Sea of Azov. As news of the nighttime restrictions emerged, September wheat futures on the Euronext exchange rose by 4.5%.
Context
- Novorossiysk is targeted by Ukrainian strikes as a military port and oil export facility, providing resources for Russia’s war efforts.
