Crises in the Russian oil and gas industry
The Russian oil industry is experiencing a systemic crisis due to Western sanctions. This has led to a decrease in oil production and the accumulation of significant volumes of unsold raw materials. In December 2025, the average daily oil production in Russia fell to 9.326 million barrels, the lowest figure in recent times. It is noted that oil production lags behind the OPEC+ quota by 250 thousand barrels per day.
The volume of 'excess' oil accumulating at sea has increased by 30 million barrels, reaching a total of 185 million barrels. This indicates serious problems in the sector, as the reduction in production has become the largest since June 2024. The Ukrainian Foreign Intelligence Service emphasized that such changes indicate a deepening of structural problems, not just temporary fluctuations.
Industry Outlook
Moreover, even if prices stabilize, Russia is unlikely to quickly return to fulfilling its quotas under OPEC+. This indicates that the crisis in the Russian oil and gas industry may have a prolonged nature, negatively affecting the country's economy.
The situation in the Russian oil sector is an important aspect of global energy security, as Russia is traditionally one of the largest oil suppliers in the world market. The decrease in production and accumulation of unsold raw materials may lead not only to economic difficulties for Russia but also to changes in the dynamics of global oil prices.
Amid increased sanctions and reduced investments in the sector, Russia needs to find new ways to adapt to the new realities, which could affect its long-term economic stability.