Russia has started importing petrol from India by sea to ease a worsening fuel shortage triggered by ongoing Ukrainian attacks on its energy infrastructure. Two industry sources confirmed the move on Wednesday, noting that at least 60,000 metric tons of petrol have already been shipped in two tankers carrying 30,000 to 40,000 tons each. Fuel rationing, long queues, and record-high prices have been reported across Russia’s 11 time zones.

The Kremlin said on Tuesday that Russia is in talks with several countries to secure fuel imports at acceptable prices, though neither the Russian Energy Ministry nor India’s Oil Ministry commented. A third source indicated Russia plans to import about 400,000 tons of petrol monthly from multiple countries, including Belarus, which has already increased its rail shipments. President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that Ukrainian drone strikes on refineries have caused regional shortages but insisted the situation is under control.

Russia’s parliament recently approved tax amendments to subsidize fuel imports in line with Indian supply costs. Meanwhile, data from LSEG and Kpler showed India’s crude oil imports from Russia hit record highs in June.