Russian oil giant shaping energy markets amid sanctions and sanctions-related disruptions
The Guardian has found that in July and August, over 176,000 tonnes of diesel and other fuels loaded at South Korean ports were shipped on seven tankers to Russia’s Far East, including vessels under UK and EU sanctions. South Korea says its laws were not violated and will review vessel routes and declarations. Ukraine calls this a breach of sanctions amid escalating tensions with Seoul.
Ukraine’s long-range strikes have hit oil refineries and energy facilities across Russia, fueling a fuel shortage in several regions. Attacks have disrupted refining capacity from Omsk to Yaroslavl, triggering rationing and price pressures while Moscow promises restoration efforts.
Ukraine has announced a cabinet reshuffle after Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has resigned, saying Ukraine is changing its political strategy. Zelenskyy says the changes aim to implement an updated foreign policy focus, with new leadership in key ministries and law-enforcement heads.
Ukraine has hit Bashneft-Novoil and Slavneft-Yanos refineries inside Russia, aiming to cut Moscow’s oil revenue. Kyiv says two patrol boats and shadow fleet vessels were struck in the Black Sea as part of its response. Russia reports drone interceptions and damage to a Wildberries warehouse.
Kyiv and its region endure a sixth night of Russian air attacks, with drones and missiles targeting infrastructure and housing. Ukrainian officials report dozens killed or wounded, while authorities warn of ongoing strikes as air defences contend with jet-powered drones and long-range missiles. Western allies face pressure over interceptor stockpiles as Moscow pursues strategic disruption.
Overnight Russian strikes have killed at least 12 people and injured dozens across Kyiv and surrounding regions, with civilian infrastructure hit and fires reported. Kyiv officials say the attacks targeted energy and transport hubs, while Ukraine vows to bolster air defences as winter nears.
Ukraine has carried out long-range drone strikes on multiple Russian oil refineries this week while Russia has launched large drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, killing civilians and damaging infrastructure. U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly urged Kyiv to stop targeting diesel facilities as U.S. diesel prices hit record highs, and Russian officials report dozens of intercepted drones and refinery damage.
Energy ministers and key delegates from G20 nations, including Canada and Saudi Arabia, gather in Houston for discussions on energy security as gas storage in Europe strains ahead of winter. Russia’s attendance has stirred debate amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine and Iran, with US officials highlighting the need for affordable, reliable energy.
ProPublica has reported that Umar Kremlev, a Russian boxing official with ties to President Vladimir Putin, has paid hundreds of thousands of dollars toward Donald Trump Jr.'s May wedding weekend in the Bahamas, covering an island rental and a fireworks show. Rep. Robert Garcia has opened a congressional inquiry and asked the White House and Trump Jr. for records.
Drones have targeted energy infrastructure around Moscow, with authorities reporting interception of more than 1,600 drones and damage at the Moscow Oil Refinery. Officials say several drones hit a refinery and a residence, while evacuations and casualties are confirmed in some areas as Ukraine continues long-range strikes amid ongoing election activities in Russia.
Russian presidential decrees have placed the Russian operations of several Western retailers and food companies under temporary administration, transferring control to newly registered or Kremlin‑linked firms. The moves follow earlier 2023 seizures and are taking place as Moscow and Berlin exchange diplomatic and security accusations, putting German firms such as Metro and Globus at risk.
Trump has said Russia has lost control of its diesel industry as Ukraine expands strikes on energy infrastructure. He will meet Zelenskyy on the UN sidelines to discuss de-escalation and air defense as winter approaches, with Ukrainian and Russian actions shaping global diesel supply.
Diesel prices have surged to new highs in the UK amid global supply disruptions linked to the Iran war and Russia-Ukraine conflict. The US is weighing export bans to ease domestic pain, while Europe and the UK face rising costs and tight supplies. Authorities warn prices will likely rise further as markets react.