Leningrad Region to Cap Fuel Purchases at 30 Liters Per Fill-Up
Russia's Leningrad region will introduce a uniform 30-liter fuel purchase limit per vehicle in the coming days as a temporary measure amid ongoing shortages, with about a fifth of independent and small gas stations already shut. Officials say gasoline supply is stabilizing but remains tight.
The government of Russia's Leningrad region will introduce a uniform fuel-purchase limit of 30 liters per vehicle in the coming days, the regional press office told Fontanka. The measure is described as temporary and will stay in effect until October 1.
Governor Alexander Drozdenko said earlier that the limit was proposed by oil companies. He noted that authorities decided against using QR codes or ration coupons for residents, as these would cause unnecessary inconvenience. An odd-even purchasing system is being kept in reserve, but officials will try to manage without it for now.
Situation on the ground
The governor described the region's fuel situation as difficult, saying the top priority is preventing panic, which drives a surge in demand. According to Drozdenko, about 20% of independent and small gas stations have stopped operating because they were unable to purchase the volumes they needed on the commodities exchange.
Supply of AI-92 gasoline is stabilizing, Drozdenko said, with fuel available and a positive outlook. The situation with AI-95 gasoline remains difficult: it is available, but in smaller quantities than usual. The region is not experiencing diesel shortages, he added.
Background
The second wave of Russia's fuel crisis began in August, driven by Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries. Gasoline prices rose and lines formed again at gas stations, echoing shortages seen in previous months. According to Reuters, three of Russia's six largest diesel-producing refineries sharply cut production or shut down entirely in September due to damage from the strikes.
