Russia Raises Oil Exports From Western Ports Despite Drone Strikes In Early April

Export Surge Amid Disruptions

Shipments from western ports averaged 3.35 million barrels per day in the four weeks to April 5, 2026. This increase comes despite drone strikes damaging facilities such as the Primorsk port and NORSI refinery, which reduced domestic refining capacity.

Revenue Impact

Higher global oil prices, driven partly by Middle East tensions, amplified Russia’s export earnings. Weekly revenues reached $2.02 billion, the strongest since June 2022, underscoring the Kremlin’s reliance on crude exports to sustain its war chest.

Strategic Outlook

By redirecting crude flows to seaborne exports, Russia has managed to stabilize cash flows despite infrastructure damage. Analysts warn, however, that continued drone strikes could leave energy assets vulnerable, forcing Moscow to rely even more heavily on western port shipments.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Russia boosts crude exports from western ports in April 2026

•⁠  ⁠Shipments averaged 3.35 million barrels per day

•⁠  ⁠Weekly oil revenues hit $2.02 billion, highest since June 2022

•⁠  ⁠Drone strikes damaged Primorsk port and NORSI refinery

•⁠  ⁠Moscow offsets refinery losses by redirecting flows to export terminals

Sources: Bloomberg, Al Jazeera, The Gaze, Reuters