Vladimir Putin is facing unprecedented criticism today as Russia lurches into chaos over worsening petrol queues. Ukraine's strikes on oil refineries are tightening a noose for the dictator with dire warnings of economic collapse and social unrest.
Chronic Fuel Shortages Trigger Chaos
Russians are lining up for many hours and even days at a time in some regions to fill their cars due to chronic fuel shortages. Fights are breaking out in the Soviet-style queues and bribes are being paid to secure black market fuel as the war powerfully impacts Putin's own people.
With Putin's poll ratings slumping, one ruling party lawmaker Andrey Gurulev, a reservist army general, declared: "It's a fiasco."
Economic and Social Impact
The fuel crisis is exacerbating economic pressures on ordinary Russians, who already face inflation and sanctions. The prolonged queues and violence highlight growing discontent, which could fuel political instability.
Analysts warn that if the shortages persist, Putin's grip on power may weaken further, especially as the war in Ukraine continues to drain resources.
