As of June 2025, according to CREA, despite sanctions, energy claims, and reputational risks, more than 20 countries still actively import Russian fossil fuels following the onset of the Russian Federation’s full-scale war against Ukraine in 2022. The top three importers are China, which has paid Russia €253.1B for oil, gas, and coal; the EU (€209.4B); and India (€138.7B). Together, these countries have provided Russia with over €600B in fossil fuel revenue since the start of the invasion.
- China is the clear leader in importing Russian oil (€182.6B) and coal (€36.8B) and ranks second in gas (€33.8B).
- The EU ranks first in Russian gas purchases, totaling over €102B in three years, including pipeline gas and LNG.
- India has purchased oil worth €103.9B, compared to Europe’s €123.3B.
Also among the countries purchasing Russian energy resources are Turkey (€103.6B), Germany (€28.6B), Hungary, South Korea, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Slovakia, Belgium, Japan, the UAE, and Singapore.