Russian Gasoline Production Drops by 35% Due to Ukrainian Drone Strikes
Ukrainian drone attacks have severely reduced Russian gasoline output, causing a deficit that affects approximately 50 million people.
Russian oil refineries are experiencing a 35% deficit in gasoline production compared to summer demand, according to industry sources. The daily shortfall amounts to 40,000–45,000 tons, up from 25% in June. Summer peak daily demand in Russia ranges from 115,000 to 120,000 tons.
Damage from Ukrainian drone strikes has halted operations at several refineries, including the largest ones in Nizhny Novgorod and Omsk, as well as the Saratov refinery. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged problems and shortages in the fuel market, leading to queues at gas stations. He attributed the situation to necessary repairs following drone attacks.
According to the Financial Times, the drone strikes have caused a 20%–40% loss of refining capacity. The fuel crisis directly affects about 50 million people, or 35% of Russia's population.
