Following new sanctions imposed by the US and European Union, Turkey has begun to gradually reduce its imports of Russian oil. Major Turkish refineries are actively looking for alternative supply sources to minimize the risk of secondary sanctions and maintain access to global markets.
On October 22, 2025, the US Treasury imposed sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, as well as their subsidiaries that control a significant share of exports. The EU and UK followed with similar measures. The new restrictions impose criminal liability on companies cooperating with sanctioned entities and the risk of being cut off from the US dollar financial system for banks.
In response, Turkey's largest refineries, including those operated by SOCAR and Tüpraş, have started purchasing oil from Iraq, Kazakhstan, Brazil, and Angola. As a result, the share of Russian crude in Turkey's imports fell from almost 100% in September-October to around 47% in October. Further increases in non-Russian imports, particularly from Iraq, are planned. Turkish refineries had previously exported products refined from Russian crude to G7 countries, but new sanctions complicate such operations.
Experts note that Turkey is trying to balance the economic advantages of cheaper Russian oil with the risks of Western sanctions and aims to modernize its military technology with US support. While a complete rejection of Russian oil is not yet planned, significant changes in import strategy are underway. The situation will further depend on the enforcement of sanctions and Russia's response to the new measures.
