Australia rejects Russian fuel imports despite US trade deal

Australian Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen has rejected the possibility of importing Russian fuel, despite a recent arrangement between the United States and Russia to supply 1.8 million tonnes of diesel to the US. Bowen stated that Australia does not want or need Russian fuel and maintains policies to ensure such supplies do not enter the country, emphasizing that Russia should not be rewarded for its invasion of Ukraine.

Addressing concerns regarding fuel security amid rising diesel prices and Middle East tensions, Bowen reported that Australia currently holds 43 days of petrol, 31 days of diesel, and 30 days of jet fuel. He noted that 51 ships are currently en route to Australia, with 3.2 billion litres of various fuels scheduled for delivery over the next four weeks.