“In another blow to Russia’s ailing economy, winter crops are facing record losses.”
Wrath of God?
Could be weather, but disruptions to financing operations, due to interest rates surging, might also have contributed. As you point out, manpower might be an issue. Perhaps local fertilizer and fuel disruptions from refinery strikes, or rail system delays.
The wheels are starting to come off, as multiple problems compound.
Because of Putin, the Doom of Russia.
OPEC+ meets tomorrow (5 Dec), where the plan had been to start undoing the production restrictions they currently have in place.
But President Donald J. Trump, and American production, loom large in their calculations.
What will President Trump do to Venezuelan, Russian and Iranian production? Will President Trump’s tariffs on China reduce their demand for oil?
OPEC+ is on the horns of a dilemma - increasing production could drop (Brent) oil prices below $70, when many members need $80 or $90 to balance their budgets; but higher prices would likely result in higher American (Brazilian and other non OPEC+) production.
It seems like the Saudis may push for extending OPEC+ production restrictions for another 3-6 months, to see how things shake out after president Trump’s inauguration.
Russia will no doubt keep cheating for all they are worth, as their finances grow more dire.