Russia faces widespread fuel shortages after Ukrainian attacks

Fuel shortages, exacerbated by Ukrainian drone attacks, are now widespread across Russia, affecting regions from annexed Crimea to southern Russia and the capital, Moscow, according to residents.

Drivers throughout much of Russia are experiencing limits on fuel purchases. The restrictions are especially stringent in Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia, large parts of southern Russia, and Siberia. While Moscow and a few remote areas have not imposed formal limits, some gas stations in the capital are closed, and others have long queues.

President Vladimir Putin acknowledged on Sunday that Ukrainian drone strikes had led to fuel shortages in certain areas. He stated that a special task force is working to guarantee sufficient supplies nationwide. However, the situation remains challenging, particularly in Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.

In Crimea, Ukrainian forces have been targeting supply lines as part of an effort to disrupt Russia's war machine. Crimean authorities have suspended fuel sales to private drivers and reduced operating hours for public transport and cafes. In Sevastopol, the largest city, residents faced queues for gasoline priced at 189 rubles per liter, nearly triple the normal rate, when sales were permitted in limited quantities.

The shortages have also reached Rostov, a southern Russian city near the border with southeastern Ukraine. In Moscow, despite an explosion at a refinery during a Ukrainian drone attack a week prior, prices at major state-run gas stations have remained largely stable. However, some private stations have seen prices increase by over 10%, reaching about 80 rubles per liter, and queues have formed in parts of the city.