Russia extends diesel export ban to stabilize domestic supply as refinery disruptions persist

Russia’s government announced on July 30 that it will extend its ban on diesel exports through January 31, 2027, a move designed to keep domestic fuel flowing while Ukrainian drone strikes continue to knock refineries offline. The restriction also covers gasoline, marine fuel, and gas oils.

What the ban actually covers

The full export ban on diesel for producers kicked in on July 8, 2026. The latest extension pushes the restrictions roughly six months further, through the end of January 2027.

Starting September 1, producers will receive exemptions allowing them to resume some diesel and related product exports. Gasoline restrictions, however, will stay tighter for all parties involved.

Humanitarian aid shipments and deliveries tied to intergovernmental agreements are carved out from the ban entirely. There’s also a temporary policy ensuring fuel access for farmers during the harvest season, running through November 1, 2026. Public institutions get similar protections.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has said publicly that Russia currently faces no diesel shortage domestically.

The refinery problem

Ukraine has launched multiple drone strikes targeting Russian oil refining infrastructure, and a number of major facilities have been incapacitated or forced to reduce output as a result.

Russian diesel and gas oil loadings dropped to approximately 234,000 barrels per day in early July 2026.

Global diesel market feels the squeeze

With one of the continent’s largest diesel suppliers effectively pulling product off the international market, European diesel margins have climbed to historic highs.

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