Putin says fuel shortages will not alter Russia's war aims in Ukraine

Russia is experiencing widespread gasoline shortages after more than 50 Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries and other energy sites since March, cutting an estimated one-third of the country's refining capacity. Government data show fuel output has fallen about 17 percent, prompting rationing and long queues for motorists, with Crimea facing the most severe shortages.

In a televised meeting with officials, President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the “difficult period” but described the disruptions as “temporary.” He said Russia would speed up repairs, consider gasoline imports and increase production of air-defence systems to protect energy facilities. Putin framed the Ukrainian attacks as an attempt to divide Russian society and force negotiations on terms he deemed unfavorable, stating, "We will not give them that chance."

The Kremlin also rejected recent Ukrainian cease-fire offers, insisting any truce must include Ukraine’s withdrawal from the Donetsk region and a ban on NATO membership, among other conditions. Putin said a proposal to limit fighting to four Russian-annexed regions was declined because it would allow Ukrainian forces to concentrate on defending other areas.

Western analysts note that while the strikes have not halted Russian advances on the front line, they have strained logistics and contributed to a stalemate. The United Nations estimates more than 16,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed since the conflict began.