In a move highlighting the depth of Syrian-Russian relations, Moscow has begun delivering a new shipment of oil and gas condensate to Syria’s Banias Port, according to traders and LSEG data. The shipment includes about 750,000 barrels—or roughly 100,000 metric tons—of a mix of Arctic heavy ARCO oil and gas condensate, a light oil.
The tanker Antarktika, an Aframax-class vessel capable of carrying 700,000 to 800,000 barrels, is currently anchored near Banias after loading cargo from Russia’s Murmansk and Ust-Luga ports, the data shows.
Relief Amid an Ongoing Energy Crisis
The Russian delivery comes as Syria faces an acute energy shortage. Years of conflict severely damaged oil infrastructure, leaving much of the country dependent on irregular fuel imports. The latest shipment is expected to ease market pressure as winter approaches and demand for heating materials rises.
Many Syrians hope the new supplies will bring tangible improvement in fuel and electricity availability, following months of hardship marked by long power cuts and high fuel prices. The arrival of Russian oil signals a gradual revitalization of Syria’s energy imports and diversification beyond traditional suppliers.
After years of near-total reliance on Iranian fuel, Damascus is now broadening cooperation to include both Russia and Saudi Arabia. Observers link this shift to reforms led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, whose government has prioritized energy diversification and market stabilization. The administration has been pursuing bilateral agreements with regional and international partners to secure consistent oil and gas supplies.
Beyond Military Cooperation
The strengthening of energy cooperation underscores that the Syrian-Russian relationship extends beyond military and security coordination. Moscow remains one of Damascus’s most significant partners, investing in ports, energy, and infrastructure projects while maintaining steadfast diplomatic support in international forums.
Russia’s continued supply of oil to Syria, despite Western sanctions and geopolitical pressures, reflects its commitment to sustaining influence in the Eastern Mediterranean and reinforcing its position as a strategic ally in the post-revolution period.
Deepening Economic Ties
This latest shipment follows President Sharaa’s visit to Moscow last week, his first since Syria’s liberation. During talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in oil, gas, and wheat supplies.
According to economic officials, Russia has already delivered several diesel shipments to Syria in recent months to help offset recurring fuel shortages. In total, Russian oil exports to Syria have reached about 350,000 metric tons—equivalent to roughly 2.6 million barrels—so far this year.
Experts say the consistent flow of Russian energy supplies plays a crucial role in stabilizing Syria’s energy sector, ensuring continuity of essential services, and supporting reconstruction and recovery efforts.
