EU import ban on petroleum products obtained from Russian-origin crude oil Effective from 21 January 2026 Publications Published: January 26, 2026 Download article pdf The EU’s ban on the purchase, import or transfer of refined petroleum products derived from Russian-origin crude oil entered into force on 21st January 2026 (Article 3ma of Regulation 833/2014 and associated FAQs from October 2025): Frequently asked questions on restrictions on import ban on refined products obtained from Russian crude oil concerning sanctions adopted following Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine From 21st January 2026, it will be illegal to directly or indirectly purchase, import or transfer, directly or indirectly, petroleum products containing Russian crude oil from countries outside the EU. This affects imports and transfers into the EU. This does NOT affect the purchase, import into third countries or transfer by EU operators of such products to third countries, including transit through EU waters.  Background The ban formed part of the EU’s 18th sanctions package, and was subject to a lengthy implementation process in order to give EU operators time to adjust their trades/practices and implement internal controls to manage risks appropriately.  The specific mischief that the EU is attempting to address is that under the EU sanctions that have been in place since 2022, Russia has been able to export crude oil to third countries such as India, Turkey and China. Much of that crude oil has found its way back into the EU, particularly from India and Turkey, in the form of refined petroleum products. This has been perceived as a gap in the sanctions framework as it has enabled Russia to export large amounts of crude. The UK has indicated that it too will ban petroleum products made from Russian crude in 2026 but has not given a date nor details. Specifics The ban is set out in Article 3ma of Regulation (EU) 833/2014 and covers the following:  Applies to petrole