Gasoline Sales Halted in Crimea After Ukrainian Attack on Oil Depots

Russian authorities have suspended the sale of gasoline to civilians in Crimea following Ukrainian drone and missile strikes on oil storage facilities on the annexed peninsula. The attacks, which occurred overnight, resulted in four fatalities and 28 injuries, according to Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed governor.

Aksyonov announced that local gas stations would cease all sales to non-state companies and individuals indefinitely. "Fuel will only be sold to state services that ensure the functioning and security of the Republic of Crimea. I ask everyone to remain calm and trust only official sources of information," he stated. Social media buzzed with inquiries about fuel availability, and authorities established a hotline for stranded tourists.

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Fuel will only be sold to state services that ensure the functioning and security of the Republic of Crimea. I ask everyone to remain calm and trust only official sources of information.

Some drivers are attempting to source fuel from Krasnodar and other locations via the Kerch Bridge, but face restrictions of 100 liters per vehicle. Reports also indicate some individuals are reselling fuel at double the pump price. This follows a pattern of Ukrainian attacks on fuel supplies to Crimea in recent weeks, exacerbating a supply crisis.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy framed the strikes as a justified response to Russia's actions. He reported that targets included a Crimean oil depot and a fuel transport facility in Russia's Krasnodar region. "Russia only understands force, and our long-term strength is certainly working towards peace," Zelenskyy posted on social media, thanking military units involved in the operation.

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Russia only understands force, and our long-term strength is certainly working towards peace.