Russia’s fuel crisis is back, with queues and gasoline rationing returning across the country

In early August, the fuel crisis resurfaced in Russia following Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries, according to reports from various regions. Lines at gas stations became a common sight across the country, from the south to the Far East. Purchase limits on fuel have been reintroduced in several regions, including Orenburg and Sochi, where gas stations have imposed caps of 30 and 60 liters of gasoline and diesel, respectively.

The Sochi city administration even urged residents and tourists to avoid using personal vehicles to alleviate pressure on gas stations. In the Lipetsk region, authorities have reinstated an odd-even refueling system, which will begin on August 13. Gas shortages have also been reported in Krasnoyarsk Krai and Bashkortostan, with some gas stations closing temporarily.

Prices, especially in regions visited by President Vladimir Putin, have fluctuated, with some stations experiencing significant drops in gasoline prices prior to Putin's visits, which reverted once he left. While few reports have emerged from Moscow and St. Petersburg, a few Business FM listeners have noted shortages of AI-95 gasoline at Rosneft stations during their travels.

The fuel sector's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a meeting on August 11 to coordinate efforts in supplying the domestic market with fuel, monitor price trends, and ensure uninterrupted delivery to consumers. The story was written by a Meduza journalist and translated using an AI model, with thorough editorial review to ensure accuracy.