President Biden Predicts Food Shortages for Americans

As the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine continues, Russians are feeling the effects at home.

Sanctions by many of the world's countries have negatively affected the Russian economy. In response, Russia has halted the export of a number of food and other products. Especially to "states that are undertaking hostile actions against Russia."

Is Russia trying to "punish" the world for its sanctions? Or is it trying to keep products at home from running out? Food shortage concerns are leading to panic buying in Russia.

The government is admitting there are sugar shortages. But they're blaming it on panic buying. Sugar is one of the products Russian officials have said the country will not export until August. 

Putin Promises 'Negative Consequences'

Other products being gobbled up by Russian citizens are electronics. And medications such as insulin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said there would be "negative consequences" for the world's food markets due to the West's sanctions.

Among the approximately 200 Russian products that will not be exported for the rest of the year are cars and telecoms. Plus medical, agricultural and electrical equipment. That's according to Russian officials.

As well as forestry products including timber. The country is also considering restricting foreign ships from Russian ports.

Russia Engages in 'A Desperate Attempt'

Putin's remarks were in response to the U.S. banning Russian energy imports. As well as the European Union announcing it will reduce its Russian gas imports by two-thirds this year.

Some see Russian export bans as not so much a retaliation against the West. But rather a way to try to stabilize the economy at home.

Russia is becoming increasingly isolated from much of the rest of the world.  The last thing officials there want is upheaval from their own citizens.

Janis Kluge is with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs. He described the export ban as "a desperate attempt to keep machinery and high-tech goods in the country." 

Wheat Only One of the Shortages

How is all this affecting America and other countries? Russia and Ukraine are the world's top wheat producers. The war is slowing production and exportation of this product. We're already starting to see the effects. 

Ukraine's government warned that the planting and harvesting of wheat have been severely disrupted by the war. Another product that will be limited globally due to the invasion is sunflower oil. Much of which is produced in Ukraine. 

Russia is also the world's largest exporter of lumber. And a major exporter of coal. And one of the top producers of metals such as iron, steel, aluminum, nickel and palladium. 

Many Western companies have suspended or closed operations within Russia. Including Boeing and Airbus. In retaliation, Russia may seize their assets.

In addition, Western sanctions on Russian oil and gas companies has led to an increase in food shipping prices. David Beasley is executive director of the World Food Program. He said, "As the war heats up, dozens of distant countries are set to feel the burn."

'It's Going to Be Real'

President Joe Biden told Americans they will experience food shortages as a result of Putin's invasion of Ukraine.

In a recent news conference, he said, "It's going to be real. The price of the sanctions is not just imposed upon Russia. It's imposed upon an awful lot of countries as well. Including European countries and our country as well." 

Biden said he and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau talked recently. They discussed increasing their nations' agricultural production.

The president also urged all nations to drop trade restrictions that could restrict exports of food. Including those in Europe.

Beef, Dairy, Canned Goods and More

Food shortages at American grocery stores will probably depend on where groceries are purchased. That's due to regional differences in supply. Among the foods most frequently cited for potential shortages is meat. Especially beef and poultry.

Another is dairy products. Such as milk, eggs, yogurt, cheese and cream cheese. Others include plant-based proteins. Including tofu, almond milk and soy-based cheeses.

Crop failures could cause shortages in a number of different fresh fruits and vegetables. Even canned foods could take a hit, due to aluminum shortages. Plus pet food, bottled water, juices and soft drinks.

Why all the shortages? There are several reasons. Including transportation issues and a lingering pandemic. Plus a lack of packaging materials. And labor shortages and cyber attacks.

Stock Up on Survival Food... While There's Time

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To your survival,

Robert Boyd

Managing Editor, News4Patriots