Russia will reroute crude oil volumes originating from Kazakhstan that had been destined for Germany through the Druzhba pipeline to alternative export channels beginning May 1, Reuters reported, citing the Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.

Novak explained that the shift was based on available logistical options and had been coordinated with Kazakhstan. He also downplayed the impact on Europe, noting that Germany has already reduced its reliance on Russian oil imports.

The development follows a Reuters report on Tuesday indicating that flows of Kazakh oil to Germany via the Druzhba pipeline would cease at the start of May.

Kazakhstan’s energy minister confirmed on Wednesday that no shipments to Germany were planned through the pipeline for May, attributing the disruption to potential damage linked to Ukrainian drone attacks.