European Diesel and Jet Fuel Imports Surge Ahead of Russian Sanctions

Imports of diesel and aviation fuel to Europe have surged as traders prepare for new sanctions against Russia and the approaching winter season.

The Gaze reports on it, referring to Bloomberg.

From October 1 to 20, 2025, the EU received nearly 1.9 million barrels of oil from India, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, potentially setting a record monthly volume for diesel and aviation fuel purchases. Middle distillates, used to power trucks, locomotives, airplanes, construction machinery, and to heat homes, have become a key commodity following the ban on Russian supplies in 2023.

The upcoming EU restrictions, set to take effect on January 21, threaten to disrupt supply chains as traders seek to cover energy shortfalls and take full advantage of open-arbitrage opportunities ahead of winter. 

Rising demand and market uncertainty are putting additional pressure on supplies, especially amid temporary or permanent refinery shutdowns in the region.

New U.S. sanctions against Russian energy companies Rosneft and Lukoil limit the ability of Indian refineries to procure Russian crude for the European market, making the movement of barrels more risky and expensive. 

India currently supplies approximately 362,000 barrels per day, or 20% of the middle distillates arriving in the EU in October. The new restrictions could reduce these supplies almost to zero.

This situation is driving a reshuffling of global trade flows. Europe is seeking alternative suppliers, while Russia is looking for new markets for its crude, with China potentially playing a key role in compensating for the shortfall if it agrees to increase purchases. 

As The Gaze previously reported, Indian oil refineries have temporarily suspended new purchases of Russian oil following the U.S. sanctions against Moscow's two largest exporters, pending official clarification.