5 August 2026
Euro-2 gasoline, which was banned in Russia in 2013 and contains 50 times more sulfur than modern fuel, will return to Russia.
According to the Ministry of Energy’s press service, the production, import, and sale of K2, K3, and K4 grades of motor gasoline (which meet Euro-2, Euro-3, and Euro-4 standards) will be permitted in Russia until July 1, 2027.
“The decision taken is temporary. It is aimed at ensuring a stable supply of motor fuel to the domestic market and preventing a potential shortage,” the Ministry of Energy emphasizes, adding that this is an “anti-crisis measure.”
It is necessary to “ensure a balance between fuel quality requirements and the need to guarantee its affordability for consumers,” the ministry’s statement reads.
Unlike the current Euro-5 standard, which was introduced in Russia in 2016, Euro-2 gasoline allows 500 mg/kg sulfur instead of 10 mg/kg. It also does not regulate the content of aromatic hydrocarbons, including benzene, and also allows the use of monomethylaniline (MMA), an octane-boosting additive. Due to its high toxicity and cancer risks, it is banned in most countries, but was used in Russia until 2016.
Modern engines are not designed for this type of fuel, notes fuel market expert Anastasia Bunina: sulfur damages the cylinder-piston assembly and fuel system, engine oil, spark plugs, valves and injectors, as well as the catalytic converter.
In early July, the government allowed several Russian refineries to produce and sell Euro-3 gasoline (with a sulfur content of 150 mg/kg) until the end of the year. However, this apparently wasn’t enough to supply the domestic market. In July alone, 18 refineries were hit by Ukrainian drone strikes; by the end of the month, seven large refineries were idle, and 11 were operating at below-capacity levels—between 30% and 70%. Refining volumes in the country fell back to 2002 levels—3.6 million barrels per day.
This is very good news for the cockroach car drivers, who will soon be walking everywhere when they’ve killed their cars with this junk fuel. Ditto many business that will be transporting their products with wheel barrows.
Not only will we destroy your cars, but we will also poison you too.