In 2026, the Gap in Petrol Prices Between russia and the USA Is Increasing

Average retail petrol prices in russia have already exceeded those in the USA, and the gap between them will only grow in the coming years. As of early 2026, a liter of fuel in the USA costs almost by five rubles less than in russia, once again debunking the myth of “cheap energy carriers” for russian consumers.

Price dynamics in both countries is developing in opposite directions. In the USA, fuel prices are trending downward, following global oil prices. In russia, petrol prices are steadily rising, outpacing inflation: in January 2026 alone, average prices rose by 1.2%, with increases recorded in 78 regions.

The outlook for russia’s economy remains bleak for the coming years. The US Energy Information Administration expects the average annual price of Brent crude oil to decline in 2026, while the russian government continues to base its calculations on unrealistic figures. Against the background of falling export revenues, oil companies are compensating for losses in the domestic market.

The state of the rf’s public finances is also creating additional pressure. The ministry of finance has already warned of a significant budget deficit due to shortfalls in oil and gas revenues and advance spending. The intention to cover this gap with funds from the national wealth fund and tax increases only confirms the systemic problems of russia’s economy and its deepening lag behind developed countries.