Russia grapples with fuel crisis as shortages and long queues hit gas stations

Russia is facing a growing fuel crisis, marked by widespread gasoline shortages and long lines at gas stations across the country. The situation has become so acute that drivers are reportedly filling canisters as if stocking up for an extended period.

Dmitry Denisov, the head of the city administration in Kaluga, a city southwest of Moscow, personally experienced the difficulties. He described arriving at gas stations on a Monday only to find drivers already queuing. Denisov himself was only able to refuel his car late at night, after the crowds had dispersed.

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People are filling canisters as if they are stocking up on gasoline for the rest of their lives.

His public frustration, captured in a video that has since gone viral, highlights the challenges many Russians are facing. The crisis is seen as a consequence of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has disrupted supply chains and strained the nation's resources. While officials have acknowledged the problem, the extent of its impact on the general population is becoming increasingly apparent.

The situation is particularly concerning given Russia's status as a major oil producer. The inability to ensure adequate domestic fuel supply raises questions about the resilience of the country's infrastructure and economy under the pressures of the conflict.

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After the gas stations finally became free again, I was only able to refuel my car deep in the night, at 3:20 AM.