Russia seeks aid – Turkic nation refuses

As a result of missile and drone strikes launched by Ukraine against Russian oil refineries, Russia is experiencing a fuel shortage and long queues at gas stations; this situation is also negatively affecting the country's overall economic state. The Russian government has begun turning to its neighbors for a solution to the crisis. Following Belarus, Russia is now seeking to purchase fuel and lubricants from Kazakhstan as well.

Axar.az reports that political scientist Elkhan Shahinoghlu made these remarks. “The government of Kazakhstan is in no rush to make a decision on this matter, as supplying fuel to Russia would be viewed internationally as support for that country’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Consequently, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy has stated that the conclusion of international agreements and commercial contracts for the supply of oil products is possible only if there is available surplus capacity. The statement also emphasized that the absolute priority for Astana is the full and uninterrupted supply of the domestic market: ‘Export supplies to neighboring states can only be carried out if there is no risk to meeting the needs of Kazakhstan’s own citizens and economy.’

Astana is compelled to weigh all the risks,” the political analyst said.