VOICED : Syrian Kurds refine oil for themselves for first time

In the Kurdish region near the Turkish border, local authorities have taken over oil production due to the absence of government forces. They operate small refineries to meet energy needs, despite the poor quality of fuel produced. The ongoing conflict has drastically reduced Syria's oil output, with the Kurdish government defending the wells against threats from the Islamic State. The region faces a complex fuel market with options from the regime, Iraq, and local sources. The Kurdish minority cooperates with Damascus to maintain some control over oil resources.

Describe the process of refining crude oil as mentioned in the text.

What is the significance of the alliance between the Kurdish minority and the Syrian regime?