The Russian government has allowed the production, import and circulation of Euro-2, Euro-3 and Euro-4 gasoline until July 1, 2027, according to a decision announced by the Energy Ministry. The ministry said the measure is "temporary in nature."
The ministry said the decision aims to "ensure stable supply of the domestic market with automobile fuel and prevent possible shortages." Officials said the long-term policy on environmental fuel requirements is not being revised.
The Energy Ministry also said gas stations will display information about the environmental class of fuel in a clear format so that citizens can make an "informed choice" when purchasing.
Euro-2 gasoline was used in Europe from 1995 to 2000. Russia banned it outright in 2013. The permission to sell fuel with higher sulfur content has led to an increase in visits to auto repair shops, and experts say complaints will continue.
Greenpeace expert Anna Yezhak said using such fuel poses a direct threat to health. Burning high-sulfur gasoline releases sulfur dioxide and fine particulate matter PM2.5, which penetrates deep into the lungs. Even short-term daily exposure increases the risk of asthma attacks, heart attacks and heart rhythm disorders. Children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases are most vulnerable.
Russia's fuel crisis has lasted more than two months. Gasoline shortages at filling stations arose in part due to Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, which temporarily halted fuel production at the plants.