The Russian government plans to provide loans and subsidies to farmers in drought-stricken parts of the country, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin says.

Some of the warmest weather in a decade has spread across parts of Russia, prompting 14 regions to declare states of emergency, The Moscow Times reported Tuesday.

The drought in parts of Russia has prompted speculation that the world's fourth-largest grain exporter may be forced to import grain this year just to meet domestic needs.

Agriculture Minister Yelena Skrynnik confirmed to Putin that her grain forecast has been cut from 90 million metric tons to 85 million tons, but she added that Russia would have enough supply to meet demand.

In addition to promising farmers aid, Putin warned against anyone taking advantage of the drought.

We must nip in the bud any attempts to make quick cash on this misfortune, the drought, he told a government meeting.