A large-scale fuel crisis is unfolding in Russia, with consequences felt across the entire country. Amid a sharp decline in domestic gasoline production, Moscow is forced to seek alternative sources of supply. According to the latest data, Russia is holding active negotiations with Kazakhstan regarding the possible import of 50,000 tons of AI-92 gasoline.
Blow to Refineries and Production Drop
The root of the problem lies in a series of successful attacks by Ukrainian drones on oil refineries (ORs) in central Russia. By the end of June, these incidents led to the shutdown of several major production facilities. According to Reuters, total gasoline production in the country has decreased by approximately 25% year-on-year. This decline has become a critical factor forcing the government to seek external assistance.
Trade Exchange: Gasoline for Aviation Fuel
The situation in negotiations appears complex. Kazakhstan's Minister of Energy, Erlan Akkenzhanov, previously stated that an official request from Moscow to Astana has not yet been received, while the Russian Ministry of Energy is not commenting on the situation. However, sources point to a possible barter scheme. Kazakhstan could supply gasoline in exchange for Russian aviation fuel, a shortage of which is expected in the republic as early as July due to seasonal demand growth and repairs at the Atyrau Refinery.
One of the key players in this scheme could be the Kazakhstani "Kondensat" refinery, which processes gas condensate from the Russian TANEKO plant. However, the prospects for this cooperation are clouded by the events of June 12: TANEKO, owned by Tatneft, completely halted processing after a drone strike. This means that raw materials for the Kazakhstani partner may also be at risk.
Moscow's Response and Restrictions for Citizens
The Russian government is forced to operate in a multitasking mode, implementing a complex of measures to stabilize the market. These include limiting fuel exports, increasing subsidies for affected refineries, and organizing sea imports of gasoline. This month, the regulator took an unprecedented step by allowing plants to produce fuel with reduced quality standards.
The fuel crisis, which intensified in June 2026, has already led to strict restrictions for the population. Sales limits on gasoline have been introduced in 53 regions of the country. The largest market player, "Tatneft," has limited fuel dispensing to 30 liters at a time. The shortage has affected not only remote areas but also Moscow, Siberia, and the oil regions themselves, where gasoline began to be sold strictly by quota.
It is worth noting that this is not Moscow's first attempt to turn to Kazakhstani reserves. Back in 2024, Russia asked Astana to prepare 100,000 tons of gasoline in case of a possible shortage, which indicates long-term risk planning in the energy sector.