Reuters reported that Russia has abruptly halted the loading of foreign tankers at a key Black Sea export hub, citing a new port security regulation that requires all foreign vessels to obtain clearance from the Federal Security Service (FSB)—a move expected to disrupt more than 2% of global crude oil supply.

The restrictions took immediate effect earlier this week following a presidential decree signed by Vladimir Putin. The regulation effectively shuts down terminals in Novorossiysk, including the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal south of the city. The CPC handles more than 80% of Kazakhstan’s crude oil exports.

Under the new rules, all vessels “departing from foreign ports” must obtain authorization coordinated between official FSB representatives and the port captain.

This crackdown comes in response to a series of recent incidents at ports—including explosions, sabotage, and drone attacks—that have threatened Russia’s oil infrastructure. While authorities cited regulatory violations, the timing aligns with heightened domestic security measures and escalating Western sanctions on Russia’s energy sector.