Abstract
<jats:p>In the current context, the energy sector has become a key pillar of Russia–Brazil relations, particularly in their trade and economic dimensions. Although Brazil is a producer and exporter of crude oil, it has been actively importing Russian petroleum products, especially diesel, since 2022 largely due to insufficient domestic refining capacity. The sharp rise in Brazilian fuel imports from Russia has created a mutually beneficial area of cooperation, with both economic and political significance. For Brazil, these supplies have become an important tool for strengthening energy security, which in turn has a substantial impact on domestic political stability. For Russia, despite sanctions and the loss of much of its European market, Brazil has emerged as a valuable commercial partner and a major new outlet for its hydrocarbons, supporting Moscow’s efforts to diversify export destinations. Notably, Russian oil product shipments to Brazil, which resumed during the presidency of Jair Bolsonaro, not only continued after he left office but actually increased under his political rival, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This trend reflects the strategic importance of Russian supplies for Brazil and shows that this aspect of bilateral cooperation has remained resilient despite the country’s markedly shifting political landscape.</jats:p>