Moscow limits fuel sales as drone attacks on refineries cause shortages

Fuel stations in Moscow have reintroduced limits on gasoline purchases, citing fuel shortages that are linked to Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries and strong seasonal demand. The shortages began to intensify in May and have since spread to most Russian regions, although Moscow had temporarily eased restrictions in June.

Ukraine has been targeting Russian oil refineries as part of its strategy to undermine Moscow's war effort and reduce its energy revenues. In response, Russian authorities have implemented measures to bolster domestic supplies, including banning gasoline and diesel exports, relaxing fuel quality standards, and initiating imports of petroleum products.

Witnesses in Moscow and the surrounding region have observed long queues at some filling stations. Major Russian oil companies have confirmed the sales restrictions. Gazprom Neft is limiting gasoline sales to 40 liters per customer at its automated stations in Moscow, while other stations have a 60-liter cap for gasoline. Diesel sales remain unrestricted at these locations. Rosneft, Russia's largest oil producer, has capped gasoline sales at 30 liters per vehicle across all its stations nationwide, with no restrictions on diesel. Lukoil and Tatneft have also implemented fuel sales restrictions in Moscow and its surrounding areas, citing elevated demand and operational needs, though they have not specified the exact limits.

These limitations come amid heightened demand and ongoing disruptions to refining capacity, impacting consumers at the pump. The situation reflects the broader economic pressures and strategic implications of the ongoing conflict.