Russia has banned the export of diesel fuel and aviation kerosene in response to the crisis in the oil products market, caused by infrastructure damage and increased demand. This measure is intended to stabilize the domestic market and was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.
Amid attacks on oil refineries in Russia, there has been a shortage of automotive gasoline, as several facilities were damaged. This, combined with an approximately 30 percent increase in demand for fuel, has significantly complicated the market situation. As sources report, Russia already plans to start importing oil products in July to address the deficit.
The Russian government responds to the crisis by postponing planned maintenance of refineries and involving additional capacities. Major oil companies have decided to prioritize supplying fuel to regions where independent gas stations predominantly operate, which is expected to help keep the market from collapsing.
Meanwhile, the former chief sanitary doctor of Russia, RAS Academician Gennady Onishchenko, noted that the reduced availability of gasoline might even positively impact the environmental situation and the health of the capital’s residents.
