18 Mar 2011 15:09

Winter-crop losses could affect 5 mln hectares this year - Putin

MOSCOW. March 18 (Interfax) - Seasonal factors could increase Russia's loss of planted winter crops to 5 million hectares, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said.

"Because of unfavorable weather conditions, roughly 20% less winter crop was planted. In absolute figures, this is 3.5 million fewer hectares, and considering the projected unavoidable losses during over-wintering, that figure could increase to 5 million hectares," Putin said at a meeting devoted to preparations for the country's spring field work.