The Russian government has taken unprecedented measures to stabilize the domestic energy market. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak officially announced the introduction of a complete ban on diesel fuel exports. This decision is a reaction to the shortage of fuel within the country.
Logistics shift and capacity expansion
Alongside the ban on diesel exports, imported petroleum products will begin arriving in Russia in July. To meet domestic demand, the government has decided to postpone scheduled maintenance at several oil refineries to a later date. This will allow for the use of additional capacity and an increase in fuel production volumes.
Official assessment of the situation
Despite the introduction of strict restrictions, Alexander Novak assesses the current situation cautiously. According to him, the fuel situation is "partially stabilized, but remains difficult." Earlier, in June, the Kremlin officially acknowledged a gasoline shortage, explaining it as a "15% drop in retail sales," while avoiding mentions of causes related to the operation of refining capacity.
Context: strikes on energy infrastructure and fleet
The decision to ban exports and import fuel is made against the backdrop of intensified military actions in the region. From July 1 to 8, the Unmanned Systems Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine struck 50 energy nodes in Crimea and the southern occupied territories. A ferry in Kerch, a cargo ship, and 19 tankers of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" were also hit, significantly complicating supply logistics.
