Russia is facing an escalating fuel crisis, with over 40 regions now implementing strict limitations on fuel sales. As reported by The Moscow Times, the latest restrictions affect Yakutia, Bashkortostan, and the Primorsky and Krasnodar territories. Gasoline sales are now capped at 20–30 liters per vehicle, and refueling into canisters has been completely banned to prevent hoarding.
Despite official attempts to label the shortages as a result of «seasonal spikes in demand,» reports of fuel scarcity are pouring in from 85 regions across the country. The crisis is a direct consequence of the systematic strikes conducted by the Ukrainian Defense Forces against Russian oil refineries and energy infrastructure. According to Reuters, Russian gasoline production has plummeted by approximately 25% year-on-year, falling to 85,000 tons per day against a summer daily demand of 110,000 tons.
The inability of the Russian government to stabilize the market has become a major internal issue. Even Vladimir Putin has openly admitted to the fuel supply problems, while the State Duma has warned citizens not to expect a return to previous market availability. The destruction of key processing units by drones has created a structural deficit that the Russian oil sector, currently hampered by international sanctions and technical degradation, cannot overcome. This internal collapse serves as a reminder of how drone warfare is effectively eroding the logistical capabilities of the Russian military-industrial complex from within.