Turkish Supplier to UN Program Received Stolen Grain from Russian-Linked Firm
A Turkish company supplying the United Nations World Food Programme allegedly purchased Ukrainian grain stolen from Mariupol through a Russian firm with ties to drone production. The findings, reported by Ukrainian NGO Slidstvo.Info and as detailed in Ukrainska Pravda, reveal that between 2023 and 2024, the Russian company Nika shipped over 54,000 tons of grain originating from occupied Mariupol to Turkey. This development raises concerns about the potential for diverted aid and the complex network supporting Russia’s war effort.
According to the investigation, Roman Gurov, the owner of Nika, also serves as the CEO of Roboavia, a company sanctioned for producing reconnaissance and attack drones for the Russian military. Customs data indicates that Nika’s grain exports to Turkey and Egypt reached 59,500 tons in 2024, valued at $12.9 million. Product compliance declarations reportedly identify the company’s production facilities as being located in the occupied zone of Mariupol.
Even as Global Commodities and Logistics Limited appeared as the recipient in Turkey, a portion of the shipment was ultimately destined for Erisler, a UN supplier. Laboratory analysis of a batch received by Erisler in April 2024 was reportedly conducted by Cotecna’s Odessa office, though the company has denied providing services related to agricultural products exported from Ukrainian territories not controlled by the Kyiv government.
The investigation highlights the challenges in tracking the origin of grain shipments and ensuring the integrity of supply chains amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The alleged involvement of a UN supplier in purchasing stolen goods underscores the need for increased scrutiny and transparency in international food aid programs.
