Russia has imposed a full ban on diesel exports, a move that underscores just how badly Ukrainian drone strikes have disrupted the country’s refining infrastructure. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak confirmed the decision on June 23, 2026, during a governmental meeting chaired by President Vladimir Putin.

The ban is the most aggressive step yet in a series of escalating fuel restrictions that already include prohibitions on gasoline and jet fuel exports.

What drone strikes have done to Russian refining

Ukrainian drone strikes have knocked out roughly 25% of Russia’s diesel production capacity, according to reports surrounding the ban announcement. Gasoline output has taken a similar hit, falling approximately 25% year-over-year by mid-2026.

Among the most significant targets is Gazprom Neft’s refinery in Omsk, a facility with a capacity of 440,000 barrels per day.

Gas stations across the country have implemented arbitrary sales limits. Long queues have become a regular feature of daily life in affected regions. Crimea has gone a step further, instituting additional public restrictions on fuel distribution.

Global market fallout

Russia has historically been one of the world’s largest diesel exporters, supplying major economies including Brazil and Turkey.

US diesel futures responded accordingly. Following the July 2026 implementation of the ban, futures recorded their largest daily gain in four years.

Prior to the full ban, Moscow had already extended temporary restrictions on diesel and related fuel exports through July 31, 2026.

Russia’s strategic bind

Reports indicate that Moscow is now considering importing fuel, a remarkable reversal for a country that sits on some of the world’s largest oil reserves. The government is also reportedly exploring subsidies to ease consumer pricing pressures.

European buyers largely exited the market under sanctions since 2022, forcing Russian crude and refined products toward Asian and other non-Western buyers at discounted prices.