Russia bans the export of aviation fuel for the first time

WorldBusiness & Finance
2 Jun 2026 • 1:20 AM MYT
DPA International
DPA International

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Image from: Russia bans the export of aviation fuel for the first time
FILE PHOTO - An Airbus A320 aircraft is refueled with Jet A-1 kerosene at Stuttgart Airport. (is associated with: «Russia bans the export of aviation fuel for the first time») Christoph Schmidt/dpa

The Russian government has banned the export of aviation fuel, also known as kerosene, for the first time.

"The aim of the decision is to ensure stability in the domestic fuel market," the Russian government said in a statement issued on Monday.

The measure is set to remain in force up to and including November 30.

Quantities of kerosene that are already at customs or are being shipped based on bilateral government agreements are exempt from the regulation. The refuelling of foreign aircraft at Russian airports will also remain possible.

It's the first time Russia has imposed such restrictions on aviation fuel, which follow the introduction of similar regulations on the sale of petrol and diesel abroad.

The background to the measures is the ongoing drone attacks by the Ukrainian military on the Russian oil industry.

Kiev is fighting back against the invasion ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin more than four years ago. In May alone, 16 Russian refineries were damaged, including 8 of the 10 largest.

Crude oil processing in Russia is now at its lowest level in more than ten years.

On the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula, motorists have been able to refuel only upon presentation of ration cards or in small quantities since the weekend.

The export ban on kerosene has had little impact on the global market, of which Russia has a share of around 2%.

Turkey has been the main buyer to date.