Key facts
- Three of Russia's six largest diesel-producing refineries have cut or completely halted output in September.
- Kirishi refinery is offline; Volgograd and NORSI are operating at about a fourth of their capacity.
- These six refineries account for half of Russia's total diesel production.
- Ukraine has increasingly targeted Russian refineries to disrupt fuel supplies and reduce energy revenues.
- U.S. diesel prices have surged, crossing $6 per gallon last week.
Ukrainian drone attacks have crippled half of Russia's six largest diesel-producing refineries, forcing them to halt or slash output in September. These facilities, which include Kirishi, NORSI, and Volgograd, account for approximately 50% of Russia's total diesel production. Kirishi has shut down completely, while NORSI and Volgograd are operating at about 25% capacity, according to Reuters, citing market data and sources. These attacks are part of Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Russia's fuel supply and reduce energy revenues that finance its war effort. The disruptions have contributed to domestic fuel shortages, export bans, price increases, and sales restrictions across Russia. Diesel exports fell to below 1 million metric tons in June, a significant drop from 2.5 million tons a year prior. U.S. diesel prices have surged past $6 per gallon, with refining margins widening due to declining product inventories. The International Energy Agency estimates that Russian refineries have been successfully struck by drones approximately once every three days in the first eight months of 2026. In Leningrad Oblast, where Kirishi refinery is offline, regional authorities have introduced temporary fuel limits at gas stations.