Russia Imposes Temporary Ban on Aviation Kerosene Exports
Starting June 1, 2026, and lasting until November 30 of the same year, the Russian government has enacted a temporary prohibition on exporting aviation kerosene. This move stems from a drop in domestic fuel production caused by repeated Ukrainian attacks on Russia's energy infrastructure. The restriction covers jet fuel, including supplies purchased through exchange trading.
Exemptions and Prior Restrictions
The ban does not apply to fuel already loaded onto aircraft or stored in their technical tanks, nor to kerosene batches cleared by customs before the decision took effect. Deliveries under intergovernmental agreements are also exempt. This is not the first fuel market restriction imposed by Russia:
- In late January 2026, the government banned exports of gasoline, diesel, and other petroleum products until July 31, 2026, citing the need to secure domestic fuel supplies.
The fuel market situation is worsening due to declining refining capacity. According to analytics firm OilX, Russia's average daily crude oil processing volume fell to 4.69 million barrels in April—the lowest level in 16 years. The combined capacity of refineries that have fully or partially halted operations exceeds 83 million tons annually, roughly a quarter of Russia's total refining capacity. These plants previously supplied over 30% of the country's gasoline and about 25% of its diesel fuel.
Russian authorities emphasize that the new restrictions aim to maintain stability in the domestic fuel market. With rising demand for fuel, especially ahead of holidays and vacation periods, these measures are designed to preserve internal resources and ensure steady supply.
The export ban on aviation kerosene is part of Russia's broader strategy to control its domestic fuel market amid an energy crisis. Reduced refining capacity and lower fuel production volumes are forcing the government to take steps to support supply stability at home. This reflects how the ongoing conflict with Ukraine continues to impact Russia's economy, with potential long-term consequences for the country's energy sector.
In light of the recent restrictions, it's important to understand the broader implications of Ukraine's ongoing strikes on Russian energy facilities. As reported, Russia is considering further measures to control fuel exports in response to disruptions in production. This evolving situation highlights the critical interplay between military actions and energy policies, which could have lasting effects on both domestic and international fuel markets.