A severe fuel crisis is gripping Russia, with petrol available at only 28% of stations nationwide, a significant drop from 41% just a week prior. This shortage is largely attributed to ongoing drone attacks by Ukraine targeting Russian oil infrastructure, which have severely disrupted refining capabilities. As a result, many regions have implemented fuel restrictions, including limits on how much petrol can be purchased per customer.
In Moscow, queues are forming at petrol stations for the first time, highlighting the crisis’s escalating impact on daily life. The Russian government has responded by reintroducing lower-grade fuels that were previously banned, raising concerns about environmental and engine performance issues. Retail petrol prices have surged, with some areas reporting costs exceeding 100 roubles per litre.
The Kremlin has acknowledged the situation, with President Putin downplaying its severity while simultaneously tightening price controls on fuel. However, the reality on the ground suggests a growing frustration among citizens, as complaints about shortages have led to detentions in some regions, indicating a crackdown on dissent.
As the crisis unfolds, the implications for everyday life in Russia are profound, affecting transportation, economic stability, and public sentiment. The reliance on imported fuel from Belarus and other countries may not be enough to alleviate the shortages, particularly with maintenance scheduled at key refineries in the coming weeks.
Source: Euronews
