Russia Bans Gasoline Exports Amid Iran War and Ukrainian Strikes

• •Russia's gasoline export ban starts April 1, 2026, lasting until July 31.
• •Increased Ukrainian strikes have severely impacted Russian oil refinery operations.
• •40% of Russia's oil export capacity is currently halted due to ongoing conflicts.

Russia has announced a ban on gasoline exports starting April 1, 2026, to address domestic fuel demand amid rising global prices due to the ongoing war in Iran. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak indicated that the ban, which will last until July 31, is a response to significant price volatility in the global oil market exacerbated by the Middle East crisis and increased Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. The export ban aims to stabilize domestic supply as Russian refineries face operational challenges, with 40% of the country's oil export capacity reportedly halted due to these attacks. The ban follows previous restrictions on gasoline exports during periods of high domestic demand and has been implemented to prevent shortages, particularly in regions impacted by the conflict. Analysts suggest that while Russia's gasoline exports are relatively modest, the situation remains tense as the Iran war continues to disrupt global energy supplies.