Russia Gasoline Shortages Ukraine Attacks Oil Refineries
- Ukraine's intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries are raising concerns about potential fuel shortages across several regions of Russia and in areas of Ukraine currently under Russian control.
- To mitigate the risk of shortages, Russia lifted a ban on fuel exports in late July.
- Authorities in occupied areas of Ukraine have also acknowledged the challenges, particularly the threat to fuel trains.
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Ukraine’s intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries are raising concerns about potential fuel shortages across several regions of Russia and in areas of Ukraine currently under Russian control. The attacks, coupled with the seasonal increase in fuel demand during the summer travel season, are creating a complex situation for Russian authorities.
To mitigate the risk of shortages, Russia lifted a ban on fuel exports in late July. However, logistical bottlenecks, low fuel inventories, and ongoing repairs at refineries are contributing to the problem. Reports from the Primorye region in the far east of Russia indicate kilometer-long queues at gas stations, though local authorities attribute these to increased tourism and road work.
Authorities in occupied areas of Ukraine have also acknowledged the challenges, particularly the threat to fuel trains. Sergei Aksyonov, Russia’s leader on the Crimean Peninsula, suggests these difficulties could persist for another month.
The situation highlights the vulnerability of Russia’s energy infrastructure and the potential for disruptions to fuel supplies as the conflict in Ukraine continues.