Putin's approval rating falls as fuel shortages dominate public concern

A poll conducted by the Public Opinion Foundation (FOM) from July 10 to 12 indicated that 66% of respondents approved of President Vladimir Putin’s performance, down from 71% a week earlier, according to independent outlet Meduza. Trust in the leader also slipped to 67%, the lowest level recorded since the war began.

The decline coincides with a deepening domestic fuel shortage. For the second week in a row, respondents identified fuel scarcity as the nation’s most pressing issue, with 19% selecting it over 18% who cited the war in Ukraine and 14% who pointed to attacks on Russian territory.

Ukraine’s attacks on Russian oil refineries have reduced domestic fuel output despite Russia’s status as the world’s third-largest oil producer. Wholesale fuel prices have risen, rationing measures have been introduced in several regions, and social-media videos show long queues at Moscow gas stations.

Energy exports account for roughly 30% of Russia’s budget and are vital for financing the war, while Western sanctions continue to pressure the sector. In June, President Putin acknowledged the shortages, stating that attacks on energy infrastructure create problems and that the current shortage was “not critical.”

Regional officials report that governors must rely on fuel allocations approved by Moscow, limiting their ability to source supplies independently. One Siberian vice-governor said their primary task has become “mitigating social unrest,” while others compete for extra fuel through connections in the capital. Some regions have introduced odd-even license-plate rationing schemes.

Experts note that opinion polls in authoritarian contexts may understate dissatisfaction, as citizens can fear repercussions for expressing criticism of the government or the war.