Gasoline Crisis in Russia Grows Due to Refinery Attacks
Drone attacks on refineries across the country and declining production have caused fuel sales restrictions and long queues in many regions, particularly St. Petersburg and Leningrad.
The resurging gasoline crisis in Russia, driven by drone attacks and declining production at refineries, has led to long queues and fuel sales restrictions in many cities, most notably in the St. Petersburg and Leningrad regions.
Gasoline Shortage and Queues
According to platform data analyzing information from drivers, gasoline completely ran out at some stations in recent days, while long queues formed at others and sales were restricted. It is noteworthy that the problems are particularly concentrated in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region.
Statements from the Governor and Resolution Plan
Leningrad Region Governor Aleksandr Drozdenko stated that the fuel shortage stems from production reductions at major facilities, primarily the Kirishi oil refinery, due to drone attacks. Drozdenko noted that they plan to increase shipments by procuring gasoline from other refineries and expect the issue to be resolved by early October.
License Plate and Quantity Restrictions
In the Leningrad region, the option of vehicles purchasing fuel on different days based on their license plate numbers is being evaluated to reduce congestion. While gasoline sales are limited to 20 to 30 liters per vehicle per day, similar restrictions are being implemented in other regions of the country.
Measures Taken by the Government
The Russian government continues its efforts to resolve the fuel problem and increase production. At a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak, it was decided to directly monitor shipments in regions experiencing shortages.
Import and Export Policies
While the export ban remains in place to maintain stability in the domestic market, the government has started importing gasoline from Belarus, Kazakhstan, India, and Morocco. The Ministry of Energy also continues its measures to direct stockpiles to the domestic market.
Loosening of Environmental Standards
In order to increase fuel supply in the domestic market, the Russian government temporarily permitted the production, import, and sale of Euro-2, Euro-3, and Euro-4 class gasoline, which have lower environmental standards.
History of the Crisis and New Wave
Following the first major shortage that began in late May with drone attacks by the Ukrainian army targeting energy facilities, the situation partially improved in July, deepened again in mid-August, and a new wave began in September.