Russia-Poland coal transit disruptions

Russia has implemented restrictions on rail transit through the Krasnoye intergovernmental junction on the Russian-Belarusian border. These suspensions, requested by Russian Railways, affect all cargo and empty wagons moving between Krasnoye and the Belarusian station of Osinovka.

The disruptions specifically impact coal shipments from Central Asian countries, such as Kazakhstan, to Poland. Kazakhstan is a major supplier, providing approximately 1.9 million tons of Poland’s 3.06 million tons of total coal imports during the first half of 2026. The Polish Chamber of Coal Sellers (PIGSW) noted that the initial suspension occurred from October 8 to October 17, 2026, with further restrictions reported to begin on October 28.

No official reason has been provided for the ban. While some coal reaches Poland via Baltic Sea ports, the Krasnoye corridor is a primary land route for energy coal from the region. Polish Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka stated that there is currently no risk of coal shortages for the systemic energy sector, noting that the situation is being monitored daily and importers are seeking alternative supply directions.