Several tankers carrying Russian diesel fuel that were reportedly destined for the US market have changed course and are no longer heading towards North America, raising questions about a potential energy supply arrangement between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The latest vessel to alter its route was the Malta-flagged Agioi Fanendes, which was carrying approximately 40,000 tonnes of diesel. It followed two other tankers, Talisman and Leruo, the latter of which is subject to European and US sanctions.
According to available shipping data, none of the cargoes that departed the Gulf of Finland on October 27 now appear likely to reach the United States.
The development casts doubt on the reported arrangement between Trump and Putin to supply the American market with Russian diesel in an effort to bring down fuel prices.
The three tankers, which departed from a port near St. Petersburg approximately two weeks ago, are currently at sea awaiting new destinations.
One possible explanation for the change in plans is opposition from several US states along the East Coast to accepting fuel supplies from Russia.
Ukrainian strikes intensify Russia’s fuel crisis
Meanwhile, Russia is facing an increasingly serious fuel shortage as Ukrainian attacks continue to target key facilities in its energy sector.
During the night of November 8–9, one of the targets was Kirishinefteorgsintez, Russia’s second-largest oil refinery by processing capacity.
Following the attacks, Russian authorities reintroduced restrictions on fuel purchases. Under the new measures, consumers are allowed to purchase up to 30 litres of fuel in cities and 50 litres on highways.
The authorities have also prohibited filling fuel cans and other containers at petrol stations.
Estimates suggest that approximately 30 percent of Russia’s oil refining capacity is currently out of operation.
Although some refineries manage to resume production following repairs, repeated Ukrainian attacks are leaving these facilities increasingly vulnerable and raising the risk of more extensive damage.
Khodorkovsky warns of further damage to Russian refineries
Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former prominent Russian oil industry businessman who now lives abroad as an outspoken Kremlin critic, has also warned about the consequences of the attacks.
According to Khodorkovsky, each new wave of strikes further weakens Russia’s refinery infrastructure and increases the possibility of a major industrial incident.
The energy difficulties are emerging on both sides of the conflict. In Kyiv, continued Russian bombardments have left entire neighbourhoods without water, electricity and heating.
Meanwhile, Moscow is also confronting serious challenges in its energy sector, particularly regarding domestic fuel production and distribution.
