How Much Oil Does the U.S. Buy From Russia? A Clear Breakdown

In 2023, the U.S. imported about 60,000 barrels per day of crude oil and petroleum products from Russia—a significant drop from pre-2022 levels but still a measurable flow in global energy markets. While sanctions and shifting trade policies have reshaped U.S.-Russia energy ties, understanding the scale and context of these imports helps explain their role in both countries’ economies and the broader energy landscape.

Why the U.S. Still Buys Russian Oil (Despite Sanctions)

Even after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the U.S. didn’t immediately ban Russian oil imports. Instead, it relied on a phased approach, targeting high-value Russian oil while allowing some trade to continue under strict conditions. The remaining imports are mostly refined petroleum products like diesel or heating oil, not crude, and they’re often purchased through third-party traders to avoid direct dealings with Russian entities.

For example, some European refiners still process Russian crude and then export the finished products to the U.S. This indirect route keeps a small but persistent flow of Russian energy in American markets, though at much lower volumes than before the war.

The Numbers Behind the Trade

Before 2022, the U.S. imported over 200,000 barrels per day from Russia, with peaks near 700,000 barrels in some years. By 2024, that number had fallen to roughly 60,000 barrels daily—a 90% reduction. To put this in perspective, the U.S. now imports more oil from Canada in a single day than it does from Russia in a month.

This shift wasn’t just about sanctions. Rising U.S. shale production, cheaper alternatives from Mexico and Saudi Arabia, and strategic stockpiling also reduced dependence on Russian oil. Still, the remaining imports matter because they influence global oil prices and supply chains, especially in niche markets where specific petroleum products are hard to replace.

What This Means for U.S. Energy Independence

The decline in Russian oil imports is a win for U.S. energy security, but it’s not a complete victory. Some industries still rely on Russian-derived products, and global oil markets remain interconnected. For instance, if another major oil-producing country cuts supply, even small flows from Russia could become more valuable.

On the flip side, the U.S. has used this shift to strengthen ties with allies like Canada and Mexico, securing more stable and politically aligned energy sources. Over time, this could reduce volatility in fuel prices and give American refiners more control over their supply chains.

Where Does the Remaining Russian Oil Go?

Most of the Russian oil still reaching the U.S. is refined into products like diesel or jet fuel, not sold as crude. These products often enter the U.S. through Gulf Coast ports, where they’re blended or distributed to regional markets. Some end up in heating oil for northeastern states, where demand spikes in winter.

Interestingly, the U.S. isn’t the only country still buying Russian oil products. India, China, and Turkey have ramped up purchases, offsetting some of the lost Western demand. This creates a complex web of trade where Russian oil is still circulating globally, just in different forms and to different buyers.

What’s Next for U.S.-Russia Oil Trade?

Unless new sanctions target refined products, the U.S. will likely continue importing small amounts of Russian oil-derived goods. However, the long-term trend is clear: American refiners are moving away from Russian supply, favoring domestic production and allies. This transition could accelerate if global oil prices rise or if geopolitical tensions escalate further.

For consumers, the impact is indirect but real. While gas prices aren’t directly tied to Russian oil imports, a sudden disruption in global supply chains could still drive up costs. Keeping an eye on these flows helps explain why energy independence remains a priority—and why even small imports matter in the bigger picture.