Recent research suggests that Russian oil is entering the UK market through a loophole, despite sanctions imposed due to the conflict in Ukraine. The so-called loophole allows Russian crude to be refined in non-sanctioning countries such as India, then sold to the UK. This process does not breach the UK’s ban on Russian oil but has raised concerns about indirectly funding Russia’s war efforts.
- Russian oil is being imported to the UK as fuel, produced from refineries in countries that do not sanction Russia.
- The importation of these refined products does not violate the UK’s ban on Russian oil but is seen as undermining sanctions.
- Global Witness research indicates the UK has imported jet fuel and diesel through this loophole, providing at least £100 million in tax revenues to Russia in 2023.
- There are only a few refineries, mainly in India and Turkey, responsible for importing substantial volumes of Russian crude and processing it into refined products.
- The US is working on legislation to ban imports of refined products made from Russian oil, and the UK is urged to follow suit to close the loophole.
- Limited alternatives are available, but closing the loophole would disincentivize refineries from using Russian oil and potentially lower the profits for Russia.
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