Russia eyes diesel export ban, fuel imports amid Ukrainian strikes; Crimea restricts public life
Russia is weighing a diesel export ban and the import of foreign fuel to combat domestic shortages caused by Ukrainian drone strikes on refineries, according to Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak and reports from Vedomosti. These measures aim to stabilize prices and end long queues at filling stations across various regions.
Why is Russia considering a diesel export ban?
Domestic fuel shortages and rising prices are driving the Russian government to restrict diesel outflows. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated during a televised meeting on June 23, 2026, that the government is considering a ban on diesel exports alongside changes to tax legislation to support the domestic market.
The move comes as Russia struggles to maintain stable fuel supplies. Novak noted that oil companies have been forced to delay essential refinery maintenance and tap into reserves that were not previously used to meet current demand.
How are Ukrainian strikes impacting Russian fuel supplies?
Repeated drone attacks on civilian infrastructure, specifically oil refineries, have crippled production capacity. President Vladimir Putin described these strikes as a ploy to destabilize society and ordered the government to implement measures to offset the damage.
The impact is visible in the data. Industry sources reported that gasoline output last week dropped approximately 25% compared to the daily average in June 2025. Furthermore, LSEG data shows that seaborne oil product exports fell by about 15% in the first half of June compared to the first half of May due to unplanned refinery shutdowns.
What restrictions are affecting life in Sevastopol?
The city of Sevastopol in Russian-controlled Crimea has implemented strict limits on public activity to manage the fuel crisis and ensure safety. Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russian-installed governor, announced “enforced temporary measures” on June 22, 2026.
- Public Transport: Operations now cease at 10 p.m.
- Commerce: Large shops and cafes must close by 8 p.m.
- Infrastructure: Street lighting has been dimmed.
- Public Gatherings: Mass outdoor activities are banned.
Local residents, such as a woman identified only as Anzhelika, told Reuters that dimming street lights is a necessary step for the protection of the city.
Will fuel imports and subsidies lower prices?
The Russian government is exploring the import of fuel to fill the gap left by damaged refineries. According to the Vedomosti newspaper, imports were raised as a viable option during a meeting chaired by Alexander Novak.
To prevent these imports from driving prices even higher, two industry sources told Reuters that the government is considering subsidies. These subsidies would aim to cap fuel prices, which are a sensitive public issue and a potential trigger for wider inflation across the economy.
Comparing Production and Export Trends
The current crisis shows a sharp contrast between Russia’s crude production capacity and its refined product availability. While crude exports may remain steady, the “refining gap” is widening:
- Gasoline Output: Down 25% vs. June 2025 (Industry sources).
- Oil Product Exports: Down 15% in early June vs. early May (LSEG).
- Diesel Volume: April exports held steady at 3.25 million metric tons, showing that diesel was less impacted than gasoline until recently.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Russia has already banned exports of gasoline and jet fuel. The government is now specifically considering adding diesel to that list.
Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev implemented these measures to manage fuel shortages and enhance public safety amid the ongoing conflict.
According to LSEG and market sources, Brazil and Turkey are among the primary importers of Russian diesel.
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