Recently, Russian oil suppliers have faced growing difficulty finding buyers as global sanctions tighten. A ban on sea transport of Russian crude and a price cap have disrupted traditional routes, and tankers loaded with resource cargoes have begun to linger while buyers are sought, according to Bloomberg, Vortexa, Kpler, and ship-tracking data.
There are mounting indications that the steady movement of Russian oil is slowing. Vessels carrying fuel are seen off the coasts of Europe, Africa, and Latin America, which could lift standby costs. Some ships carrying OPEC+ crude seem to travel between ports without unloading, while others are unloaded and stored in unconventional locations.
Russia has started to diversify its crude delivery networks. The European energy market has ceased to be the dominant destination for Moscow’s exports, as new routes emerge that reach buyers many thousands of kilometers away.
Analysts note that the current logistics system is under pressure for a country that exports more than seven million barrels of crude oil and refined products every day. A substantial portion of this trade is shifting outside Europe, moving toward long-distance customers who were not previously key players in this market.
In its March monthly review, the International Energy Agency reported a noticeable drop in Russia’s oil exports in February. The report stated that the EU embargo contributed to a reduction of about 500 thousand barrels per day, with overall daily exports around 7.5 million barrels for the month after the winter period ended.
Industry observers warn that the evolving logistics landscape may influence pricing, supply reliability, and the timing of shipments. As buyers recalibrate their sourcing strategies, Russia’s willingness to adapt its export network could shape future trade patterns in the global oil market.