Massive Queues and Rationing Across Russia
Russia is experiencing its most severe fuel crisis in years, with mile-long queues of lorries and cars snaking outside petrol stations from Moscow to Siberia and occupied Crimea. The shortages have forced stations to impose rationing, limiting sales to as little as 20 litres per vehicle. Some drivers report waiting up to 13 hours for fuel.
Putin Acknowledges Shortages Amid Ukrainian Attacks
President Vladimir Putin admitted on Sunday that Ukrainian attacks were causing a “certain deficit” in fuel supply. He said: “Problems persist for motorists and businesses,” citing queues and difficulties obtaining fuel grades. However, he called the situation non-critical and pledged to deploy more air defences and accelerate repairs.
Drone Strikes Cut Refinery Capacity by 30%
Ukraine’s intensifying drone campaign has hit key refineries and supply lines, reducing Russia’s processing capacity by up to 30%. The strikes have disrupted fuel deliveries to the front, slowing Russian advances in eastern and southern Ukraine. In Crimea, civilian sales are heavily restricted to prioritise the military, leaving residents and visitors facing empty pumps and QR-code rationing. Putin noted the peninsula had mere days of supply at one stage.
Over 50 Regions Affected, Threatening Agriculture and Transport
More than 50 of Russia’s 83 regions report fuel issues, threatening agriculture during harvest season and raising transport costs. Public frustration is mounting, challenging Kremlin efforts to shield the home front from the war’s impact.
Kyiv’s Drone Prowess Forces Russia to Divert Resources
Kyiv’s drone capabilities have made it a global leader in the technology, forcing Moscow to divert resources to protect infrastructure. Analysts note declining Russian battlefield performance in 2026 as a result. The Kremlin insists its offensive continues unabated. Dmitry Peskov said goals in Ukraine would be achieved, while Putin dismissed the strikes as futile attempts to weaken resolve.
Russian Attacks Kill 12 Ukrainian Civilians
Meanwhile, Russian attacks killed at least 12 Ukrainian civilians on Monday, striking infrastructure in Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and other regions, leaving thousands without power. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Europe to bolster anti-ballistic defences. The crisis highlights the war’s reach into Russia, potentially straining its economy and morale as repairs lag behind Ukraine’s relentless campaign.
