Ukrainian Drone Strikes Trigger Fuel Rationing Across Russian Regions

Ukrainian drone strikes on 10 of Russia's 34 large oil refineries this month have triggered widespread fuel shortages across several Russian regions. The attacks, which follow a brief lull in July, have forced regional authorities to implement emergency measures to manage gasoline and diesel supplies.

In the Orenburg region, Governor Yevgeny Solntsev introduced a rationing system that limits fuel sales and bans the filling of canisters following a strike on the Orsk refinery. Officials estimate the facility may take six months to repair. Similarly, the Lipetsk region reinstated a rationing system based on vehicle license plates to control consumption.

Supply disruptions have extended to other areas, including Voronezh and Kostroma. In Kostroma, PJSC Rosneft Oil Company reduced gasoline supply limits, while Voronezh officials reported worsening availability. These shortages threaten to increase fuel prices and create political instability for the Kremlin leading up to next month's parliamentary elections.