The fuel supply situation for gas stations in some areas of Russia is tense, the Russian government stated in a social media post on 14/8. This acknowledgment comes as Ukraine continues to escalate its drone and missile strikes against Russian energy infrastructure.
Oil and gas companies are implementing necessary measures to increase supply to the most affected regions, according to the government statement. Following a meeting on the shortages, Deputy Prime Minister for energy Alexander Novak directed close monitoring of fuel prices to mitigate the impact.
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Long lines of cars at a Lukoil gas station in Moscow, Russia on 29/6. *AP* |
The Krasnodar region on the Black Sea, popular with tourists, is among the areas most severely affected. Governor Venyamin Kondratyev described the situation at gas stations as "complicated," noting that oil companies have begun reimposing fuel supply restrictions and reducing operating hours. "This is causing concern among residents and tourists in the region," Kondratyev said, adding that he has requested authorities to provide more fuel.
In recent months, Ukraine has intensified its attacks using long-range drones and missiles on Russian oil refineries. These strikes aim to degrade Russia's ability to sustain the war effort by targeting its energy production capabilities.
This week, an Orsk oil refinery, located approximately 1,300 km from the front line, was struck. The Orenburg regional governor stated on 13/8 that the plant had to close, and repairs would take several months, highlighting the significant operational impact of these attacks.
Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously confirmed in June that the country was facing "certain shortages" of fuel. He acknowledged that Russia was "going through a difficult period" but asserted that the nation would import more fuel and expedite repairs at oil and gas facilities to resolve the "temporary shortages." Putin also announced that Russia's defense industry would rapidly increase the production of air defense systems to counter Ukrainian attacks.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the attacks on energy facilities deep within Russian territory as "long-range sanctions," emphasizing Ukraine's strategy to exert pressure on Russia's war machine.
Thanh Tam (According to AFP, Euronews)
