Russia reports new gasoline shortages as Ukrainian attacks hit refineries

Russian authorities said on Friday that several regions are experiencing new gasoline shortages following a series of Ukrainian drone and missile attacks on the country's oil refineries. The government noted that the situation remains tense regarding fuel supplies to service stations and that oil companies are taking steps to increase deliveries to the most affected areas.

A meeting was held to address the shortages, and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak ordered close monitoring of fuel prices. The Orsk refinery in the Orenburg region, located about 1,300 kilometres from the front line, has been shut down for six months after a recent attack, with repairs expected to take months.

Regional officials described the impact on local markets. Krasnodar governor Venyamin Kondratyev said fuel supplies at service stations have become complicated, with companies imposing restrictions on fuel volumes and reducing station hours, raising concerns among residents and tourists.

President Vladimir Putin, speaking at a meeting on the fuel situation, acknowledged a deficit and described the period as difficult, while pledging to meet social obligations. He added that Russia would increase fuel imports and accelerate repairs at oil facilities to alleviate the temporary shortfall.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has characterized the strikes on Russian energy sites as "long-range sanctions."