Russia Bans Jet Fuel Exports as Attacks on Refineries Intensify
(Bloomberg) -- Russia banned exports of jet fuel through end-November to avoid shortages at home after Ukraine intensified attacks on the nation’s refineries.
The decision, which will have little impact on international fuel markets, comes after drone strikes on refineries pushed Russia’s crude-processing rate to the lowest in more than 16 years. In an effort to curb the flow of petrodollars into the Kremlin’s coffers, Ukraine has targeted a wide range of energy assets including sea ports and pipelines.
“The goal of the decision is to ensure a stable situation in the domestic fuel market,” the government said on its website.
Russia isn’t a major player on the world’s jet fuel market. Last year, it exported an average of 30,000 barrels a day, or less than 2% of the global supplies, according to data compiled by Bloomberg from analytics firm Vortexa Ltd. Daily average exports slipped to 28,000 barrels in the first four months of 2026, with Turkey being the main buyer, the data show.
Russia is entering its summer vacation season, when demand for fuels typically rises. The Energy Ministry had already reimposed a ban on most gasoline exports from April 1, keeping more fuel for the domestic market.
Rising prices at the pump can be a concern for the authorities, with costly gasoline triggering protests in the past, most recently in 2018.
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