How The Russia-Ukraine War Is Impacting U.S. Agriculture – An Agriculturalist's View

RANDY KROTZ

ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

When news first broke that Russia had invaded Ukraine, most Americans probably didn’t immediately think about fertilizer, fuel prices, or corn yields. But for those of us in agriculture, the ripple effects hit home fast, and they’re still hitting us today.

Nearly three years into this conflict, the war continues to shape how we farm here in the U.S. It’s affecting everything from our input costs to the global grain markets we rely on to sell our crops. This isn’t just some faraway geopolitical event – it’s something we’re living with every day in decisions we make about what to plant, how much to fertilize, and whether we’ll turn a profit this year.

Fertilizer Prices – A Pain That Won’t Quit

One of the most immediate and painful impacts has been the increase in fertilizer costs. Russia and Belarus are major global suppliers of potash and nitrogen fertilizers – essential staples for growing crops such as corn and wheat. Sanctions, trade restrictions, and supply chain disruptions sent prices skyrocketing.

A lot of us saw fertilizer prices double or triple almost overnight. Some farmers were forced to change cropping plans, planting more soybeans because they require less fertilizer. Others tried to cut back on application rates, knowing full well it could hurt yields. These are not easy choices when your livelihood depends on every bushel you produce.

Fuel Costs and Operational Challenges

Fuel hasn’t been any easier. Diesel prices surged along with global energy markets. If you run tractors, combines, irrigation pumps, or trucks, you’ve felt it. Every field pass now costs more. And inflation has only piled on, making loans for land, equipment, and operating expenses more expensive as interest rates rise.

Volatile Markets, Uncertain Futures

Grain markets have been a rollercoaster since the war began. When Ukraine’s ports were shut down and Black Sea exports stopped, wheat and corn prices soared. That might sound like a win for American farmers, but volatility brings its own risks. It’s hard to make long-term plans when markets swing wildly from one headline to the next.

Yes, U.S. grain exporters have stepped in to fill some of the global supply gaps, especially in Europe and parts of Asia. But we’re still dealing with uncertainty around the Black Sea Grain Initiative and whether Russia will block exports again. Every season feels like a gamble.

Adapting, As Always

Farmers are used to uncertainty – whether it’s weather, markets, or politics. But this war feels like a reminder of just how interconnected everything really is. A conflict half a world away has reshaped how we think about inputs, markets, and even crop selection here at home.

The hope, as always, is for stability – both for the people suffering through this war and for those of us trying to grow the food the world depends on. Until then, we’ll keep adapting, one season at a time.   ∆

RANDY KROTZ

AGWIKI CEO