Kazakhstan sent Russia a request to resume oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline, which had been suspended since May. In 2025, Kazakhstan supplied 2.1 million tons of oil to Germany through Druzhba. About 3 million tons were planned for 2026, but pumping stopped on May 1, and only 1.02 million tons were shipped.
For the German refinery in Schwedt, which supplies Berlin and Brandenburg, Kazakh oil covered about a quarter of its supply. For Kazakhstan it is an export channel, but not critical, there is the price per click, there are other routes. That is, Berlin, and not Astana, is most interested in this story.
Kazakhstan has already made its move. The Minister of Energy personally sent the request, one on one, without loud statements. Technical readiness has been confirmed. So let Germany take the initiative. If Berlin needs this oil, let it negotiate with Ukraine on securing the route, let it put pressure on its partners, let it seek guarantees. Kazakhstan should not become a party that convinces all parties to the conflict so that our oil reaches the German buyer.
Oil mainly goes there. That means they have to move there first. Astana has already taken its steps and sent a request. The ball is in the German half.