Russia halts jet fuel exports after refinery attacks, tanker seized

Russia has imposed a six-month ban on aviation fuel exports, extending its control over energy exports following a ban on gasoline earlier this year. This move comes as Ukraine continues to target Russian oil facilities and Western countries seize Russian-flagged tankers.

The Russian government announced the ban, effective until November 30, citing the need to ensure the stability of the domestic fuel market. The country had previously restricted gasoline exports from April to July and is reportedly considering similar measures for diesel, as domestic supply concerns grow. This strategy aims to curb exports to Central Asian allies like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Ukraine has escalated its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, targeting inland refineries and oil export ports to disrupt Russia's war funding. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that 15 Russian refineries have been struck this year, significantly reducing Russia's oil refining capacity by nearly 40% as of late May. He noted particular fuel shortages in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine, including Crimea.

Adding to Russia's export challenges, Western nations are increasingly intercepting Russian oil tankers. France recently detained the 'Tachor,' a tanker subject to EU sanctions, off its coast. Russia's Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denounced the action as illegal and akin to piracy. These 'shadow fleet' vessels are used to transport Russian fossil fuels to countries like India and China, circumventing international sanctions. France has seized four such cargo ships since the war began, and Sweden has intercepted five this year.

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This decision is aimed at ensuring the stability of the domestic fuel market.