Russia’s Fuel Crisis Deepens as Ukrainian Attacks Disrupt Refineries, Rationing Spreads Across 56 Regions

At least 56 Russian regions have implemented fuel rationing as Ukrainian drone attacks on oil refineries and supply networks intensify, according to data analyzed by The Moscow Times. The crisis has sparked panic-buying, price surges, and fears of broader economic fallout, with regional officials warning of worsening conditions ahead.

What Caused the Fuel Shortages?

The crisis stems from sustained Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, including the June 12 attack on Tatneft’s Taneco refinery in Nizhnekamsk, which forced nationwide fuel purchase limits. The Kremlin has attributed the disruptions to “unprecedented sabotage,” while independent analysts note the attacks have outpaced Russia’s repair capabilities.

According to Rosstat, gasoline prices in Tyva—a remote Siberian republic—rose 9.2% between June 16 and June 22, hitting 90.63 rubles ($1.21) per liter, the highest in Russia. Local officials have not imposed restrictions, though residents report traveling to neighboring Khakassia for cheaper fuel.

How Are Different Regions Affected?

Regions reliant on overland transport face the steepest challenges. In Tyva, where railways are nonexistent, all goods—including fuel—are delivered by truck or plane. “Our peak prices have already risen above all imaginable peaks,” a resident told The Moscow Times, adding that “the coming fall will probably be very hard.”

In Kursk, a region bordering Ukraine, gasoline rationing has hindered emergency evacuations during drone attacks. Local authorities capped sales at 20 liters per vehicle, complicating movement during air raids. Meanwhile, in oil-rich Khanty-Mansi, where prices are 4.94% above the national average, residents criticized the paradox of “oil wells being shut down while there’s no gasoline.”

What Are the Long-Term Risks?

Russian officials have warned of potential “serious shortages in annexed Crimea” but downplayed the crisis. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak is considering a diesel export ban to stabilize domestic supply, though regional leaders remain concerned.

Tatarstan’s Agriculture Minister Marat Zyabbarov advised farmers to stockpile 10–14 days of fuel ahead of the harvest season, citing “clear television coverage of the national situation.” Analyst Sergey Vakulenko of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center noted the crisis hinges on “a race between Ukrainian drones and Russian repair teams,” with Kyiv gaining ground as attacks increase in frequency and intensity.

What Are the Social and Economic Impacts?

In Khakassia, a resident described selling their car due to rising gas prices, while another reported cutting back on “processed meats, fruits or fish” to afford basics. In Sakhalin, “preventive” rationing was imposed after residents hoarded fuel, though officials claimed no actual shortage existed.

Animal rights groups in Irkutsk protested a bill allowing euthanasia of stray animals during emergencies, arguing for alternatives like sterilization. Meanwhile, a landfill fire in Yakutia blanketed the city in smog, highlighting environmental risks amid the energy crisis.

What’s Next for Russia’s Fuel Market?

The government faces pressure to balance export controls with domestic needs. While Novak emphasized “no immediate risk of collapse,” regional officials like Tatarstan’s Zyabbarov have called for proactive measures. As the crisis persists, experts warn that without significant intervention, the fuel shortage could spiral into broader economic instability, particularly in remote areas already struggling with poverty.