Crimea suspends civilian gasoline sales amid intensified Ukrainian attacks

Crimean officials announced on Sunday that all gasoline sales to private individuals and companies have been suspended following a series of Ukrainian attacks that killed four people and injured 28 others. Kremlin-appointed governor Sergey Aksyonov said the measure will remain in effect until further notice and that fuel will be supplied only to government agencies responsible for the peninsula’s security and essential services.

"Fuel will be sold only to government agencies that ensure the functioning and security of the Republic of Crimea," Aksyonov wrote on social media, adding a request for residents to remain calm and rely on official information.

Ukrainian forces have stepped up strikes on fuel infrastructure in the Black Sea region, targeting a Crimean oil depot and an oil transport facility in Russia’s Krasnodar area, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He described the operations as part of Ukraine’s long-range campaign against Russia’s energy assets.

"Russia understands only strength, and our long-range strength is certainly working for peace," Zelenskyy said.

Russian authorities in Krasnodar reported a drone-triggered fire at an oil terminal in the village of Chushka and a ferry strike that resulted in one death. The ongoing attacks have exacerbated fuel shortages on the peninsula, which has faced periodic supply disruptions since its 2014 annexation.

In late May, Crimea imposed a limit of 20 liters per vehicle per week, distributed via prepaid coupons that were quickly claimed, leading to long queues at stations. Some motorists resort to transporting fuel across the Kerch Bridge, limited to 100 liters per vehicle, while unofficial sellers have raised prices sharply.

The Kremlin has publicly acknowledged the severity of the fuel crisis and pledged a rapid response, as the conflict enters its 1,569th day.