How the Largest Importers of Russian Fossil Fuels Have Changed (2022 vs. 2025)

How the Largest Importers of Russian Fossil Fuels Have Changed

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Since the war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, Russia has earned $915 billion from fossil fuel exports, with EU countries accounting for over $223 billion.

Despite sanctions against Moscow, the EU remains a key consumer of Russian fossil fuels.

This graphic highlights the largest importers of Russian fossil fuels, based on the daily flow of oil and gas, using data from the CREA Fossil Fuel Tracker as of March 2025.

China Becomes the Biggest Buyer

In June 2022, China overtook the EU as the largest importer of Russian fossil fuels. Today, China imports nearly six times more than the EU. India and Turkey have also emerged as major buyers.

Meanwhile, imports from the U.S. and UK, which were relatively small before the invasion, have dropped to zero.

EU Reliance on Russian Fuel

A report released by Ember estimates that European purchases of Russian gas amounted to €21.9 billion ($23.6 billion) in 2024.

Additionally, data collected by Kpler and analyzed by POLITICO Europe revealed that in the first 15 days of 2025, the 27 EU countries imported a record-high 837,300 metric tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia. This has raised concerns that billions of dollars could be fueling Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

Russia’s Position in Global Oil Production

Russia remains one of the world’s top oil producers, frequently competing with Saudi Arabia for the second spot behind the United States.

Following the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia’s oil industry was privatized, but in 2021, the state forced a consolidation and restructuring of the sector. Today, Gazprom, Rosneft, and Lukoil are Russia’s leading oil and gas producers.

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If you enjoyed this topic, check out this graphic that shows Ukraine’s mineral resources.