Russia seeks gasoline imports as refinery attacks worsen fuel crisis
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Russia is seeking gasoline imports to address a domestic fuel shortage exacerbated by Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries, Reuters reported. The move underscores Moscow's struggle to maintain fuel supply despite being a major oil exporter.
Refinery Attacks
Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted several Russian refineries in recent months, reducing processing capacity. The attacks have forced Russia to consider importing gasoline from neighboring countries, a rare step for a major oil producer.
Import Plans
According to Reuters, Russia has approached Kazakhstan and Belarus for potential gasoline supplies. The talks are at an early stage, and no agreements have been reached yet. Russia's own production has fallen by an estimated 10% since the attacks began.
Czech Republic Ends Russian Gas Imports
The Czech Republic has announced it will stop purchasing gas from Russia and will not pay for Russian gas in rubles. The country also plans to cancel oil imports from Russia by the end of the year, according to the head of the Czech Ministry of Industry. This move aligns with broader European efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy.
EU gas import reduction target
The European Union aims to cut Russian gas imports by two-thirds this year, according to European Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans. The bloc estimates it can replace 100 billion cubic metres of Russian gas with alternative supplies.
Russian Fuel Imports from India
Russia has reportedly begun importing refined fuel from India, a reversal of typical trade flows. The move follows repeated attacks on Russian oil refining infrastructure, which have caused domestic fuel shortages.
Kazakhstan Gasoline Supply Details
Reuters reported that Kazakhstan agreed to supply Russia with 50,000 tonnes of AI-92 and AI-95 gasoline amid a growing fuel crisis. Kazakhstan's Energy Ministry stated that no specific agreements have been reached.
What's Next
Russia is expected to finalize import deals within weeks to avert a summer fuel crisis. It remains unclear whether Kazakhstan and Belarus can meet the demand without straining their own markets.
5 sources
Russia seeks gasoline imports as refinery attacks worsen fuel crisis
