Ukrainian drone attacks trigger severe fuel shortage in Crimea

Ukrainian drone strikes on fuel trucks, depots and pipelines along the land corridor from Russia to Crimea have caused the worst fuel shortage on the peninsula since its 2014 annexation. The attacks have left dozens of tanker trucks burning, halted shipments over the Kerch Bridge and forced authorities to impose weekly purchase limits of 20 liters per vehicle owner, prompting long lines at stations and a hotline for stranded tourists.

The Institute for the Study of War said the combined long-range strikes on Russian production facilities and mid-range attacks on transport routes are reducing Russia’s ability to move gasoline to Crimea. Repeated hits on the Chonhar Bridge, which links mainland Ukraine and the peninsula, have also disrupted the movement of troops, ammunition and fuel.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the shortages and said measures were being taken to address the situation. The Russian Defense Ministry has not commented on the specific attacks, while some Russian war commentators have criticized the military’s response.

The fuel crisis is affecting the tourism-dependent region, where nearly 7 million visitors were expected this year. Hotel bookings have fallen sharply, and some establishments have offered gasoline as an incentive for new reservations. A recent Ukrainian drone strike on a passenger train traveling to Crimea injured the driver and killed his assistant, leading to a temporary suspension of rail service.

Authorities are increasing ferry deliveries and allowing limited personal transport of fuel across the bridge, but speculation has driven some sellers to charge double the market price.