Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries cause fuel shortages, long queues

A series of Ukrainian drone and missile attacks on Russian oil refineries have triggered a significant fuel crisis across Russia, leading to widespread rationing and long queues at gas stations. The disruptions have affected an estimated 20 percent of Russia's total oil refining capacity, a situation described as "unprecedented in the history of the Russia-Ukraine conflict" by the International Energy Agency.

The Moscow Oil Refinery, a critical facility supplying over a third of the fuel for the capital and surrounding areas, has been targeted twice in a single week. On June 18, a strike damaged the Euro+ crude oil processing complex, a key unit commissioned in 2020. This followed an earlier strike on June 16 that had already impacted another major crude distillation unit. Satellite imagery indicates substantial damage to processing areas and storage tanks.

Restrictions on fuel purchases have now extended to 53 regions within Russia and occupied territories. Drivers are typically limited to purchasing a single tank of fuel to prevent hoarding. In some regions, purchases are capped at 50 liters per customer. Major oil producer Tatneft has implemented nationwide limits at its service stations. The situation is particularly acute in Crimea, where strikes on fuel tankers and trucks have led to rationing and long wait times for motorists, with some areas implementing a QR code system for fuel allocation.

These Ukrainian strikes demonstrate Kyiv's capability to strike targets deep within Russian territory, forcing the shutdown of numerous facilities. This strategic shift in the conflict highlights Ukraine's ability to disrupt Russia's energy infrastructure and impact its economy.

“

unprecedented in the history of the Russia-Ukraine conflict