After targeted drone attacks in Ukraine, Russia bans the export of diesel to ensure domestic supplies
Russia has banned diesel exports as part of its raft of measures designed to support the domestic market. This follows a series of drone attacks by Ukraine on oil refineries that caused shortages and price spikes.
As Ukrainian strikes against?Russian energy supplies intensify, drivers in many regions face long lines for fuel.
Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, said in a government meeting televised that the fuel situation was complex. He added that it is "clear that the current situation at the filling stations causes concern amongst the public."
He said that a ban was placed on the export of diesel fuel today, which would allow for increased supplies to be made available to the domestic market. Russia will begin importing fuel from July.
The government has said that the ban will include producers of the fuel until July 31.
Benchmark European diesel margins
Shipping data revealed that in?June Turkey and Brazil were the two largest buyers. Together, they absorbed?at least?half of all cargoes.
In June, Russia's seaborne exports of diesel and gasoil had already plummeted. They fell by 39% compared to?the previous?month and dropped 46% compared to 3.35 million tons in the same month last year.
Shipping data revealed that, in addition to the main buyers of Russian diesel, Senegal, Egypt, and Morocco were also major importers. (Reporting by , Writing by Alessandra Prentice, Editing by Philippa Fletcher/Andrew Osborn)
(source: Reuters)
