Global wheat prices surged after Ukraine escalated its drone attacks on Russian shipping interests in the Black Sea, causing significant supply disruptions. A major grain terminal at Chornomorsk sustained extensive damage, spoiling tens of thousands of tons of wheat and sunflower oil.

The attacks have led shipping operators to avoid the region, effectively halting a significant portion of Russia's export capacity. This escalation threatens a critical global food supply chain, raising concerns about food inflation and security as the conflict intensifies and strands a massive Russian grain crop.

Market Impact: The S&P 500 fell 0.28% and the Nasdaq Composite slid 0.71%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average remained flat. In crypto markets, Bitcoin dropped 1.15% and Ethereum fell 2.46% since the last session close.