Ukrainian Strikes Cut Russian Gasoline Production by Nearly 20%

Ukraine's relentless attacks on Russian oil refineries have resulted in a sharp decline in the country's gasoline production, according to recent reports. The Ukrainian forces launched a record 21 strikes on major refineries in August, marking the highest monthly number of strikes recorded to date. These strikes targeted four of Russia's ten largest refineries, which supply the densely populated and industrialized regions of the country.

As a result of these strikes, oil processing in Russia has plummeted to levels not seen in over 20 years. Energy Aspects estimates that Russian refineries processed only around 3.8 million barrels of crude per day in August, a significant drop from the earlier summer range of 5.3-5.5 million barrels per day. Consequently, gasoline production and domestic supplies have plummeted by nearly 20% compared to the same period last year, with diesel production declining by more than 23%.

In an attempt to stabilize the domestic market, Russia has restricted diesel exports. Before the intensified Ukrainian strikes, Russia supplied about 10% of global diesel exports. Energy Aspects anticipates a slight recovery in Russian refining volumes in September, reaching around 4.2 million barrels per day. However, analysts caution that persistent Ukrainian drone strikes could push refining levels even lower.

These developments highlight the growing impact of Ukraine's campaign against Russia's oil infrastructure not only on the Kremlin's energy revenues but also on fuel availability within Russia.