The Russian government announced a partial easing of its diesel export ban, permitting sales of 500,000 tonnes to foreign markets. Effective from 10 October, the decision provides for oil companies to contract with overseas buyers. It follows the agreement between Putin and Trump. The permission changes Russia’s own export restrictions after the July ban; the quantity describes authorised sales rather than completed shipments.
The Russian government said it partially lifted the diesel export ban, permitting sales of 500,000 tonnes to foreign markets. Effective from 10 October, the decision provides for Russian oil companies to begin contracting immediately with overseas buyers. The authorised quantity describes the government’s sales permission; a completed shipment total was not disclosed.[1], [2]
Russia imposed its diesel export ban in July after Ukrainian strikes on oil facilities disrupted fuel supply. Moscow also imported fuel from India for the first time and allowed lower-grade gasoline production at refineries. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak argued that the latest decision would not affect domestic consumption. He said production was sufficient for both domestic and foreign markets.[1]
The decision followed the agreement announced on 9 October between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. That agreement allows Russian diesel sales to the United States and other markets despite sanctions imposed after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The United States stopped importing Russian fuel products in March 2022. The latest step changes Russia’s own export restriction. In March, during the Iran war, Washington granted a temporary sanctions waiver for Russian oil stranded at sea. That waiver was subsequently renewed twice.[1]
