Turkey Ditches Russian Oil for US Amid Ukraine Conflict
Turkey is shifting its energy imports from Russia to the United States amid the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. According to recent Turkish customs data, the US overtook Russia as Turkey's main crude oil supplier in June, with roughly 570,000 tonnes of crude arriving compared to 425,000 from Russia.
This change is a result of increasing Ukrainian attacks on Russia's energy infrastructure, which has jolted supplies. The numbers reflect how Ankara is reducing its exposure to Russian crude after emerging as one of its top buyers following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Turkey's cut in Russian crude oil imports also comes as it purchases more diesel from the US and India. According to energy analytics firm Kpler, Turkey has imported over 120,000 barrels per day of Indian diesel and 90,000 bpd of diesel from the US since August, with these volumes being the highest on record.
The shift in imports is likely a response to the economic sanctions imposed on Russia by Western countries. By diversifying its energy sources, Turkey aims to reduce its reliance on Russian crude oil and minimize the impact of potential future sanctions.