Fuel shortage hits Russia's ally as country urgently seeks suppliers
Photo: Gasoline shortage in Kyrgyzstan (Getty Images)
Why the shortage occurred and who is involved in talks
According to media reports, Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Energy is currently holding official talks with relevant agencies in Russia, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
The main goal is to ensure stable supplies of petroleum products and prevent disruptions in the domestic market.
The republic is critically dependent on external supplies, importing around 90–95% of its fuel from Russia. However, shortages of AI-95 and AI-98 gasoline have already been recorded at local filling stations.
The situation is complicated by large-scale problems inside Russia. Due to repeated Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, many regions of Russia and its occupied territories in Ukraine are facing a noticeable fuel shortage, which has triggered a sharp rise in prices.
How the government is trying to stabilize the situation
The Kyrgyz government confirmed it is actively exploring alternative supply routes to reduce dependence on Russia.
To stabilize the domestic market, the Cabinet has introduced several measures:
- From May 25 to September 30, state subsidies are being provided to companies transporting and selling fuel.
- The Junda oil refinery has been instructed to produce 24,000 tons of gasoline per month, with plans to increase output to 50,000 tons by the end of the year.
Fuel crisis in Russia
The systematic destruction of Russia’s oil refining infrastructure has led to a deep fuel crisis, cutting gasoline production in the country by 25%.
According to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service, refining volumes in Russia fell in the first week of June to their lowest level in 21 years. This has caused widespread disruptions in public transport and utility services across many Russian regions.
Meanwhile, panic has spread at Russian gas stations, with drivers massively stockpiling fuel in containers. As a result, the country has recorded its fastest weekly gasoline price increase in 20 years. Supply disruptions, strict limits, and fuel rationing now affect around 75% of Russian regions.
Due to the critical domestic situation, the Kremlin has been forced to take unusual steps for one of the world’s largest fuel exporters. In particular, Moscow has begun negotiations with Kazakhstan to import fuel from its neighbor.
