Western sanctions

Fourth Russian Plane Malfunctions Mid-Flight in 2025

A UTair flight from Moscow to Dubai made an emergency landing due to a hydraulic fluid issue, marking the fourth Russian airline incident in 2025 and the second for UTair in a week. This follows a recent trend of technical problems plaguing Russian airlines, attributed to Western sanctions limiting maintenance and parts supply, forcing “cannibalization” of aircraft. The resulting fleet reduction and increased incidents, coupled with a “red flag” designation from the ICAO, highlight significant safety concerns within Russian aviation. These issues are further exacerbated by reported fuel rationing and rising fuel costs.

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Russian Refinery Closures Loom: Impact on Global Oil Markets Debated

Three Russian oil refineries—Tuapse, Ilyich, and Novoshakhtinsk—have curtailed or halted production due to mounting losses stemming from Ukrainian drone strikes, Western sanctions, and reduced profit margins. These plants, operating at reduced capacity or facing temporary closures, are experiencing significant financial strain, selling fuel at a discount and incurring high interest rates. The resulting drop in fuel exports and revenue impacts the state budget, exacerbating existing economic pressures. This situation is further complicated by increased oil costs exceeding the profit threshold for independent refiners.

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