Russia forced to import petrol from India after Ukrainian strikes cripple refineries
Ukraine’s attacks on Russian oil refineries have caused a severe fuel shortage, forcing Russia to import petrol from India for the first time in decades.
Russia, one of the world's largest oil producers, is now importing petrol from India to keep its gas stations supplied. At least 67,000 tonnes of petrol have been shipped across the Indian Ocean and through the Suez Canal to Russia, as Ukrainian drone strikes on refineries have slashed domestic production.
In early July, Russian refineries were operating at only 65% of seasonal petrol demand. The wave of Ukrainian attacks has pushed oil refining volumes in Russia to their lowest level in more than 21 years.
As a result, long queues formed at petrol stations in several regions, some stations imposed purchase limits, and in occupied Crimea, fuel was not sold to ordinary drivers on certain days.
Russian authorities hope that imports, using reserves, and completing repairs will stabilize the market. However, it remains uncertain whether tanker shipments can fully cover the shortfall.
