Russia’s Fuel Shortages Strike Russians at Home

The Jamestown Foundation  |  Mamie Powers

Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries have damaged 20 percent to 40 percent of Russia's refining capacity, triggering severe domestic fuel shortages. These precision attacks now reach up to 2,500 kilometers inside Russian territory, forcing 56 of Russia's 89 regions to implement strict gasoline rationing measures.

To mitigate the crisis, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced plans to import petroleum, while Moscow holds discussions with India regarding potential fuel supplies. Local authorities have restricted purchases to vehicles, with Dagestan limiting gasoline to 20 liters and Altai Republic launching digital tracking systems to curb panic buying. Although crude oil exports rose 14 percent in June, domestic shortages have caused massive lines, including a 4.5-kilometer queue in Zabaykalsky krai and a 39-hour wait in Chita. This domestic supply crisis is increasingly impacting everyday life, testing public morale and shaping future societal reactions to the Kremlin's ongoing military campaign.

Comment

Ukrainian drone strikes have severely damaged Russian domestic oil refineries. Moscow is now seeking petroleum imports from friendly nations like India. Indian policymakers must analyse the strategic risks of this indirect fuel trade. Increased transactions with Russia could trigger secondary Western sanctions on Indian firms. New Delhi must balance its energy security against these growing geopolitical pressures.

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