In a significant development impacting global energy markets, Russia’s crude oil shipments have plunged to their lowest volume since February this year. Several factors contributed to this downturn, including intensified Western sanctions targeting Russia’s energy sector and logistical challenges stemming from limited access to key export routes. The reduction has disrupted established supply chains, prompting market analysts to reassess forecasts for crude availability throughout the upcoming quarters.

Key contributors to the decline include:

  • Heightened restrictions on maritime insurance affecting tanker operations
  • Seasonal maintenance activities on export infrastructure
  • Shifts in demand as European countries diversify away from Russian energy sources
Month Crude Export Volume (million barrels) Change…