Russia has banned the export of aviation fuel until the end of November to avoid a shortage on the domestic market after Ukraine intensified attacks on its oil refineries. This was reported by Bloomberg, according to UNN.
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The decision, which will have a minor impact on international fuel markets, was made following drone strikes on refineries that caused crude oil processing levels in Russia to drop to their lowest point in over 16 years. Seeking to limit the flow of petrodollars to the Kremlin's budget, Ukraine is attacking a wide range of energy infrastructure, including seaports and pipelines.
"The goal of the decision is to ensure a stable situation on the domestic fuel market," the government said in a statement on its website.
As Russian media note, exceptions have been made for fuel in technological tanks used by aircraft during flight, as well as for batches of aviation kerosene placed under customs procedures.
Russia already has a full ban on gasoline exports in place until July 31. Fuel problems have begun at gas stations in annexed Crimea. In Sevastopol, the sale of gasoline by coupons has been introduced.
The RF is not a key player in the global aviation fuel market. Last year, its exports averaged 30,000 barrels per day, or less than 2% of global supplies, according to Bloomberg data compiled by analytics firm Vortexa Ltd. In the first half of 2024, average daily exports dropped to 28,000 barrels, with Turkey being the main buyer.
Russia is entering the summer vacation season, when fuel demand typically rises. The Ministry of Energy has already reinstated the ban on exports of most types of gasoline since April 1 to keep more fuel for the domestic market.
Rising fuel prices could cause concern for the authorities, as gasoline price hikes have led to protests in the past, most recently in 2018.