Russia Boosts Northern Sea Route Oil Shipments to Asia Amid Gulf Disruptions

Russia has increased oil and LNG shipments via the Northern Sea Route to Asia, with 2026 exports already up nearly 50% year-on-year, as US-Israeli conflict with Iran disrupts Persian Gulf flows through Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab. This rerouting leverages shadow fleets to bypass chokepoints, signaling a structural shift in energy trade routes. The development underscores Russia's growing role in meeting Asian demand amid heightened Gulf supply risks.