A recent spate of butter thefts in Russia highlights escalating food prices driven by inflation and supply shortages. Burglars stole 20 kilograms of butter in Yekaterinburg, reflecting how basic goods have become costly luxuries. A 200g stick of butter now costs nearly $2, with prices up 30% since December 2023. Food inflation has surged, with potatoes up 74% in a year, while annual inflation hit 8.5% in October, far exceeding the central bank’s target. Rising food costs in Russia are driven by the war in Ukraine, causing supply and labor shortages, higher wage costs, sanctions, and increased production expenses.
