In Russia, a dramatic surge in cucumber prices, which have doubled since December to an average of 300 rubles per kilogram, is causing public outcry and political pressure ahead of parliamentary elections. The Federal Antimonopoly Service has demanded explanations from producers and retailers, while parties like A Just Russia and the Communists are proposing price caps on essential goods. The Ministry of Agriculture attributes the price hike to seasonality, predicting a decrease with warmer weather, a justification previously used for rising potato prices. This surge coincides with a broader 2.1% inflation rate since the start of the year, exacerbated by a VAT increase to 22% to fund the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Some supermarkets are limiting cucumber purchases per customer, and reports indicate rising prices for nearly all essential goods.