The U.K. imported zero fuel from Russia in June for the first time on record, according to official figures reported by BBC News. Imports of goods from Russia also fell to £33 million ($39 million) in June, the lowest level since records began in January 1997, the Office for National Statics (ONS) said.
Fuel imports from Russia fell by £499 million — or 100% — compared with the average for the previous 12 months to February.
In 2021, the U.K. imported around 4% of its gas from Russia, and 11% of its oil, according to the International Energy Agency. Exports of most goods to Russia had also decreased substantially by June, with machinery and transport equipment sales slashed by 91.3% to £118m.
Overall, exports to Russia dropped by almost 70%, to £168m, compared with the monthly average in the 12 months to February. The ONS said that apart from government-stipulated sanctions, trade between Russia and the U.K. was lessened as businesses voluntarily sought alternatives to Russian goods.
