Fuel Shortages Hit Crimea as Ukrainian Attacks Disrupt Supply Routes

Gas stations across Crimea, the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014, are reporting severe fuel shortages, with many running dry. This situation has led to vehicles lining up for hours and the implementation of fuel rationing measures in recent weeks.

Witnesses in Sevastopol, Crimea's largest city, report that most local gas stations have depleted their supplies. The current distribution system is insufficient to meet demand, even with the rationing in place. In Yevpatoriya, a resort city, long queues have formed outside the sole functioning gas station.

The fuel scarcity comes amid increased Ukrainian drone attacks targeting supply routes to Crimea. These attacks have disrupted the flow of fuel, which primarily arrives via road and rail through Russian-controlled territories. Previously, fuel was also delivered by barges, but a key oil terminal in Feodosia was attacked in April, cutting off that supply line.

While fuel shortages are reported in 13 Russian regions according to Reuters' data compilation, only Crimea and two Siberian regions have officially confirmed the deficits. Other regions claim the situation is under control, suggesting panic buying as a cause for some disruptions. Moscow has denied facing overall fuel supply problems.

Local authorities in Sevastopol have acknowledged delays in fuel deliveries due to recent Ukrainian attacks on supply routes. The Russian central bank noted that rising fuel prices pose an additional inflation risk to the Russian economy. The shortages are impacting daily life and raising concerns about the stability of supplies on the peninsula.