Russian diesel shipments are returning to traditional markets after Moscow lifted its export ban and the US temporarily eased sanctions on Russian fuel supplies, with at least two tankers heading to Türkiye and Brazil, Reuters reported on October 20, citing shipping data from Kpler and the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG).

Shipping data showed that the tanker Leruo departed Russia’s Baltic port of Primorsk on October 16 carrying diesel bound for Manaus, Brazil, while the Dolunay left the same port on October 14 and is heading to Alanya, Türkiye.

Each vessel is carrying approximately 300,000 barrels of diesel, according to Reuters.

Russia lifted its self-imposed ban on diesel exports on October 9 following a deal with US President Donald Trump to supply fuel to global markets.

Moscow had introduced the restrictions to address domestic shortages caused by Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refineries.

The agreement included a temporary suspension of US sanctions on Russian fuel supplies. However, the European Union (EU) and the UK continue to prohibit imports of Russian fuel.

Russia, typically the world’s second-largest diesel exporter after the US, had already reduced overseas shipments during the summer before imposing the ban.

Turkey and Brazil have remained major destinations for Russian diesel since Western sanctions imposed following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine reshaped global oil trade. According to figures cited by Reuters, the two countries accounted for 34% and 24% of Russian diesel shipments, respectively, in 2026.