Record Gasoline Exports to Russia
India shipped a record 120,000 tonnes of gasoline to Russia in August, valued at 78 million euros. This significant increase came as Ukraine's drone strikes crippled Russia's own refining capacity.
Source of the Gasoline
The gasoline was refined from Russian crude at the Vadinar refinery in India, which is part‑owned by Rosneft, a Russian energy company. The refinery, operated by Nayara Energy, sourced all its crude from Russia in the first eight months of 2026.
Impact on Russia's Fuel Imports
Russia's total fuel imports in August reached 172,000 tonnes, more than seven times the previous monthly record and three times the entire 2025 total. Gasoline accounted for 74% of Russia's oil‑product imports in August, up from a 6% average from 2023 to 2025.
Shipping and Sanctions
The gasoline shipments were transferred ship‑to‑ship off Egypt before docking at Russia's Arctic port of Beloe More, using sanctioned tankers. Some of these tankers had earlier sailed under false flags.
Context and Implications
This development highlights the impact of Ukraine's drone strikes on Russia's refining capacity. It also underscores India's role as a significant supplier of fossil fuels to Russia, with India remaining Russia's second‑largest fossil‑fuel customer behind China.
Future Developments
Readers should watch for further updates on the impact of Ukraine's drone strikes on Russia's energy sector and India's continued role in supplying fossil fuels to Russia.