Russia Suspends Shipping in Azov Sea Amid Ukrainian Drone Strikes

On July 10, 2026, Russia halted civilian shipping through the Kerch Strait and Don-Azov Canal due to a series of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Russian vessels in the Sea of Azov. The strikes, which hit 13 Russian ships including 10 oil tankers, were part of a broader Ukrainian campaign against Russian maritime logistics. The Russian Border Guard Service announced the suspension of shipping applications starting at 18:10 local time on July 10, with no timeline given for resumption. The Azov Sea is critical for Russian grain exports, with up to 25% of wheat exports passing through this route. Following the announcement, wheat futures on the Euronext exchange rose nearly 4%, reaching a six-week high. Reports indicate that Ukrainian drones continued to target Russian vessels over the weekend, with claims of minor damage to the ships involved. The ongoing conflict has significant implications for global agricultural markets and energy supply chains.

Key Points: • Russia suspended shipping through the Kerch Strait and Don-Azov Canal due to Ukrainian drone strikes. • Ukrainian forces targeted 13 Russian vessels, including 10 oil tankers, disrupting key maritime routes. • Wheat futures surged nearly 4% following the announcement, affecting global agricultural markets.