Fuel shortage in Russia sparks queues, fights; Putin's approval drops
Russia faces a severe fuel crisis with drivers waiting for hours, setting up tents, and fighting over gasoline as the government bans diesel exports. Meanwhile, Putin's approval rating hit its lowest since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Fuel crisis deepens in Russia
In a country long branding itself as a "fuel superpower," Russia is now grappling with a severe gasoline shortage, reports Ukrainian news outlet UNN. Drivers are camping at gas stations, setting up tents and grills while waiting for fuel deliveries.
Long queues have formed even in Omsk, home to one of Russia's largest oil refineries, which has been repeatedly hit by Ukrainian strikes. In Novorossiysk, drivers blocked fuel tankers demanding immediate refueling, and brawls have broken out at multiple stations as people compete for gasoline.
Theft and complaints from Moscow
The shortage has triggered a wave of thefts, with gasoline being siphoned from cars after fuel tanks are punctured. Most complaints about fuel scarcity come from Moscow and the Moscow region. Residents report that many independent gas stations are closed, and fuel is mostly available only at state-owned Rosneft and Gazprom stations. Queues at popular stations range from 30 to 50 cars.
Government measures and Putin's popularity
To ease the crisis, the Russian government has banned diesel exports until July 31 and plans to import petroleum products to boost domestic supply.
Reuters notes that the fuel shortage and price hikes are largely linked to Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries, which have significantly reduced output.
The crisis is also affecting public sentiment. According to the Kremlin-linked Public Opinion Foundation (FOM), Vladimir Putin's approval rating in June fell to 74%, the lowest level since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
