Russia to Halt Kazakh Oil Flows to Germany via Druzhba Pipeline Starting May 1

Russia is set to suspend oil transit from Kazakhstan to Germany through the Druzhba pipeline on May 1, 2026, amid escalating geopolitical tensions over the Ukraine conflict. Summary Industry sources report that Russia will block Kazakh oil exports destined for German refineries, specifically targeting the northern leg of the Druzhba network. This move disrupts a critical alternative supply route Germany established to reduce dependence on Russian crude. The decision follows a period of frayed political relations and represents a significant escalation in the use of energy infrastructure as a geopolitical lever. Market participants are now bracing for supply tightening at...