Ukraine’s refinery strikes push Russia’s fuel crisis into Central Asia
Gasoline prices rose 10–13% in the most exposed markets, a Kazakh economist estimated, as governments sought other suppliers.
Gasoline costs have surged roughly 10-13% in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan due to Russia's fuel export restrictions following Ukrainian attacks on its refineries, according to Kazakh economist Aidar Alibayev's interview with Current Time. The disruptions have left Russia with less gasoline for neighboring countries. Tajikistan, heavily reliant on Russian fuel, has experienced the most significant price increases, estimated at 12-13%.
Tajikistan is exploring alternatives from China and Iran, while Kyrgyzstan has sought assistance from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and other nations, with reserves lasting around six weeks. Uzbekistan, which gets about half its fuel from Russia, has seen a 10% rise in fuel prices. Russia extended its fuel export restrictions until January 31, 2027, exempting intergovernmental and humanitarian shipments.
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan, despite producing enough fuel for domestic demand, has seen price hikes primarily due to domestic taxes and the end of its export moratorium. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and subsequent attacks on Russia's Black Sea oil infrastructure have exacerbated the situation, prompting Central Asian countries to seek alternative fuel sources and routes.
Written by urgent.news from Euromaidan Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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