Fuel crisis prompts Russian regions to call for remote work

Authorities in Russia's Novosibirsk region are advising residents to work from home and minimize car travel as a severe fuel crisis grips the area. The region, home to nearly three million people and a key economic hub in Siberia, is facing significant fuel shortages.

This crisis comes despite Russia being one of the world's largest crude oil producers. Ukraine's persistent drone attacks have increasingly targeted Russia's oil processing capabilities, severely hampering its ability to refine crude oil. A recent attack on an oil refinery in the neighboring Omsk region earlier in the week has further intensified the problem.

Since June, over 90 percent of Russia's regions have reported disruptions in fuel supply and outright shortages. Local media and official reports indicate that some areas have resorted to rationing at gas stations and prohibiting the filling of fuel canisters. In response, the regional government in Novosibirsk issued a decree on Wednesday encouraging workplaces to transition employees to remote work and reduce fuel consumption.

The decree also urges citizens to limit private vehicle travel within and outside the Novosibirsk region until the heightened alert status is lifted. Similar recommendations for remote work have been issued in the neighboring Tomsk region, where officials are also being asked to reconsider business travel and opt for online meetings. The city of Irkutsk, further east, has also requested employees to work from home.

Ukraine views these attacks on Russian oil and gas facilities as justified retaliation for Russia's ongoing aggression. Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged the existence of fuel shortages but downplayed their severity, accusing Ukraine of attempting to sow discord within Russia. Meanwhile, Russia's attacks on Ukraine continue, with recent reports of casualties from missile and drone strikes, prompting Ukraine to appeal for more air defense ammunition.