Russia Suspends Diesel Exports Until July 31 as Fuel Crisis Deepens

Russia has suspended diesel exports until July 31 in an effort to address fuel shortages that have worsened following sustained Ukrainian strikes on the country’s energy infrastructure.

Officials and local media report that more than 90 percent of Russian regions have experienced fuel rationing or shortages since June.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced the export ban during a government meeting with President Vladimir Putin.

“A ban on diesel fuel exports went into effect today, which will allow for increased supplies to the domestic market,” Novak said, adding that the move was intended to “stabilise the situation.”

In a later statement, the government said the temporary measure was introduced to ensure stability in the domestic fuel market, while exempting diesel exports carried out under international inter-governmental agreements.

Ukraine has intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries and fuel depots, reaching as far as the Omsk region in Siberia. The strikes have forced several regions to impose limits on fuel purchases and restrict jerry can sales to prevent panic buying.

Fuel shortages have left motorists waiting in long queues at filling stations, with videos circulating online showing heated exchanges among customers.

Putin acknowledged the shortages but insisted they were “not critical.” He accused Ukraine of attempting to create a “nervous situation in society” and “damage Russia’s economy.”

“We and you understand that it is an unachievable task,” Putin said, adding that Russia’s energy system had “one of the highest safety margins in the world.”

He also directed officials to resolve the fuel shortages “as soon as possible” in Crimea, which Russia annexed and where the shortages have been particularly acute.

Ukraine says its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure are intended to weaken Moscow’s war effort and increase pressure for negotiations.

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