Planned suspension of Kazakh oil transit to Germany via Druzhba pipeline

Starting May 1, Russia reportedly plans to halt oil exports from Kazakhstan destined for Germany via the Druzhba pipeline. Three industry sources informed Reuters that an updated export schedule has been communicated to both Kazakhstan and Germany. While Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak cited technical capabilities for redirected routes, Kazakhstan’s energy officials suggested that potential disruptions could stem from Ukrainian drone strikes on pipeline infrastructure. The PCK refinery in Schwedt, a major supplier for the Berlin and Brandenburg regions, relies on these supplies, which totaled 2.146 million metric tons in 2025. Although the Russian government has not officially confirmed the halt, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated he would verify the reports. The German Economy Ministry confirmed it was informed of the situation by Rosneft, the majority owner of the refinery, but asserted that local supply security remains intact. This development occurs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and strained energy relations between Berlin and Moscow following the invasion of Ukraine.