Renewed refinery attacks deplete Russian diesel supply as US deal in focus
USO•Ukraine’s renewed attacks on Russian refineries add to domestic fuel-supply pressures as Russia resumes diesel exports under an October deal with the United States. At least six cargoes have signaled transatlantic voyages, and the first observed US-bound shipment is expected in New York this weekend.
1. Refinery attacks resume
The Ryazan refinery, one of Russia’s largest, appeared to have been attacked during an overnight drone strike on industrial sites in the city, southeast of Moscow. If confirmed, it would be Russia’s second refinery hit this week, following an attack on the Yaroslavl plant on Monday.
2. Diesel cargoes head west
At least six Russian diesel cargoes have signaled plans for transatlantic voyages, while two cargoes appeared to change course after previously heading for the US Atlantic coast. No Russian diesel cargo has arrived in the United States since the October deal to resume exports; the first observed US-bound shipment is expected to reach New York this weekend, though its discharge is not guaranteed.
3. Domestic supply pressures
Refinery strikes this year forced substantial processing capacity in western Russia offline and contributed to fuel shortages, prompting Moscow to impose fuel export bans from April. The diesel export ban has since been partly lifted. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the cargoes were commercial shipments and that the diesel would find buyers.
