Russia has started importing gasoline from India as fuel shortages spread across the country, an unusual move for one of the world’s biggest oil producers.
According to Reuters, the imports reflect growing pressure on Russia’s domestic fuel market after repeated Ukrainian drone attacks damaged several oil refineries and disrupted gasoline production.
The shift is particularly notable because earlier this year it was India that relied on Russian oil to help offset supply disruptions caused by the Iran conflict. Now, the energy relationship has partially reversed, with Russia turning to India for refined fuel.
President Vladimir Putin acknowledged this week that attacks on refineries had contributed to fuel shortages but dismissed concerns about the scale of the problem. Despite those assurances, reports suggest queues at gas stations are growing in several parts of the country as drivers struggle to find fuel.
Russia remains one of the world’s largest crude oil exporters, but refining enough gasoline for domestic use has become increasingly difficult as attacks continue to hit key energy infrastructure.
For markets, the development is another reminder that energy security depends on more than oil production alone. Refining capacity has become a critical factor, and continued disruptions could reshape regional fuel trade while adding fresh uncertainty to global energy markets.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
