The article discusses the current gasoline shortage in Russia, attributed to ongoing attacks on Ukrainian oil refineries. These assaults have disrupted production and caused fuel prices to spike, particularly affecting certain regions like the Far East and Crimea. Drivers are facing long lines and even fuel rationing at gas stations, with wholesale gasoline prices soaring by 50% since January.
As the summer holiday season drives demand, the impact of the conflict has become evident: gasoline production dropped by 8.6% in early August compared to the previous year. Additionally, Ukrainian drone strikes have hampered Russian transport networks, further exacerbating the situation.
In response to the crisis, Russia has suspended gasoline exports and called meetings with oil industry leaders to address the shortages. While major cities like Moscow remain insulated from the worst effects due to better refinery access, the shortages are significant for private drivers and in more vulnerable regions.
Industry experts suggest that the situation may improve by late September, but it highlights Russia’s vulnerabilities amid the ongoing conflict, particularly as drone warfare intensifies and targets critical refinery infrastructure.
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