Russian Oil Transit via Ukraine in 2025
The volume of Russian oil transiting through Ukraine plummeted to a historic low in 2025, reaching approximately 9.73 million tons. This marks the lowest figure recorded since 1991. The 14% reduction compared to 2024 levels is attributed to several factors, including a complete halt in supplies to the Czech Republic and attacks on oil pumping stations within Russia itself.
Impact of Czech Decision and Supply Volumes
The Czech Republic, which completely ceased purchasing Russian oil in March 2025, was the primary factor driving the transit decline. Consequently, deliveries to the Czech Republic for the year amounted to only 0.52 million tons, a fivefold decrease from 2024. In August 2025, the transit volume via Ukraine was recorded at 430,000 tons.
Despite the overall reduction, the largest recipient of Russian oil in 2025 was Slovakia, receiving nearly 4.9 million tons—a 24% increase from the previous year. Transit to Hungary amounted to 4.35 million tons, an 8% decrease compared to 2024. The transit of Russian oil through Ukraine continues into 2026, with the transit agreement remaining in effect until the end of 2029.
The European Commission intends to propose that EU member states stop purchasing Russian oil by the end of 2026. This move could reduce Russia's revenue from energy exports to about 22% of all federal budget receipts in 2026, down from a previous range of 40-50%. In 2025, Russia's oil export revenues also fell by approximately 20% compared to 2024.
"A halt to oil transit is not planned before the end of the current agreement," stated Denys Shmyhal.
The decline in Russian oil transit via Ukraine reflects the growing impact of European sanctions and political decisions aimed at reducing dependence on Russian energy resources. The Czech Republic's rejection of Russian oil and reduced supplies to other countries signal a shift in Europe's energy balance. Given the European Commission's plans for a complete phase-out of Russian oil, the market situation may undergo further changes, affecting Russia's economic stability and its export revenues. This trend is part of a broader EU strategy to cut financial flows supporting Russia's military actions.