Russia without fuel: after strikes on oil refineries, Moscow is looking for petrol in China and Korea

After 38% refinery shutdown, Russia plans to buy petrol from China, Korea and Singapore

China, Korea and Singapore are new fuel suppliers for Russia

Emergency dependence on imports

After drone attacks and the stoppage of about 38% oil refineries, Russia is facing a serious fuel crisis. Moscow has announced plans to buy petrol abroad, in particular from China, South Korea and Singapore.

In addition, the Russian government cancelled 5% customs duties on imports of fuel, to facilitate supply from Asian markets.

Betting on Belarus

Separately, the Russian authorities expect to increase imports of petrol and diesel fuel from Belarus, which remains one of their main partners in the fuel sector.

However, experts point out that Belarus' capabilities are limited and cannot fully cover the deficit that arose after the Russian refineries were shut down.

Context.

According to analysts, due to massive attacks by Ukrainian drones in 2024-2025, Russia lost a significant portion of its own production capacity. This has led to disruptions in the supply of petroleum products on the domestic market and a rise in prices.