Russia has begun importing gasoline by sea from India to ease fuel shortages caused by repeated Ukrainian drone strikes on its refining infrastructure, according to industry sources, Reuters reported.

The move comes as fuel supply disruptions spread across Russia, leading to rationing measures, long queues at petrol stations and a sharp rise in domestic gasoline prices. The Kremlin confirmed on July 1 that it was holding discussions with several countries regarding fuel imports at commercially viable prices.

Industry sources said at least 60,000 tonnes of gasoline have already been shipped from India to Russia. Two tanker cargoes, each carrying between 30,000 and 40,000 tonnes, have reportedly been dispatched. The identity of the Indian supplier has not been disclosed, Reuters added.

Another source indicated that Russia aims to import around 400,000 tonnes of gasoline per month from multiple countries, including neighbouring Belarus, which has already increased fuel shipments to the Russian market. Belarus more than doubled its gasoline rail exports to Russia in early June, exceeding 70,000 tonnes, according to industry estimates.

Russia's summer gasoline demand exceeds 110,000 tonnes per day, placing additional pressure on supplies. President Vladimir Putin recently acknowledged that attacks on oil refineries had contributed to fuel shortages in several regions, although he maintained that authorities were addressing the situation.

In response, Russia's parliament has approved amendments to the tax code aimed at supporting fuel imports and mitigating shortages, including subsidies linked to Indian fuel delivery costs.

The development coincides with a sharp increase in India's purchases of Russian crude oil. Preliminary data from Kpler and LSEG showed India imported about 2.70mn barrels per day of Russian oil in June, the highest level on record. Russian crude accounted for more than half of India's total oil imports during the month, up from 36.5% in May, as refiners sought alternative supplies amid concerns over disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.