Russia extends diesel export ban after record strikes on oil refineries

Russia has extended its ban on diesel exports until September 30, as an unprecedented number of Ukrainian strikes on its oil refineries disrupt fuel production and trigger shortages across the country.

The Russian government said the measure would help maintain stability in the domestic fuel market. The restriction covers diesel, marine fuel and gasoil exported directly by producers. It does not apply to supplies made under intergovernmental agreements or provided as humanitarian aid.

Ukraine attacked Russian oil refineries at least 21 times in August, the highest monthly number since the full-scale war began, according to the report. The strikes have helped fuel a new wave of petrol shortages across Russian regions. By the end of August, Russian petrol production had fallen to 70% of usual summer consumption levels, while more than 30% of the country’s actual oil-refining capacity had been knocked out.

The export ban also adds pressure to an already strained global market. Before the latest escalation in attacks, Russia supplied about 10% of the world’s diesel. The war in the Middle East has further tightened supply, while US diesel inventories have fallen to their lowest seasonal level on record.

Europe has begun importing diesel from Mexico for the first time in seven years as it responds to fuel shortages. Russia introduced the restrictions in early July as a temporary measure and later extended them through the end of August. The government’s latest decision prolongs the ban through September 30.