Fuel shortage: Russian gas stations start selling diluted gasoline
Illustrative photo: Fuel shortage at Russian gas stations (Getty Images)
In Russia, diluted gasoline has started appearing at gas stations due to a fuel shortage, The Moscow Times informs.
According to Yuriy Valko, head of the Russian Auto Service Union, fuel tampering is already causing car breakdowns, as reported by owners of Chinese brand Geely vehicles.
"Russian gasoline producers have started cutting corners on quality because they cannot raise prices. There is a connection between these rumors and what is actually happening. Many have begun increasing the octane rating using various additives due to the economic situation amid shortages in certain regions," Valko said.
He also noted that similar practices occurred in Russia in the late 2000s and early 2010s at some gas stations.
Ukraine is targeting Russian refineries
The reason for the fuel disruptions is Ukraine’s intensified attacks on Russian refineries. It is known that since the beginning of October, Ukrainian drones have attacked Russian refineries at least four times, putting the targeted facilities out of operation. In September, there were eight attacks, and in August, 14.
From August to the end of September, at least 10 refineries were forced to partially or completely halt operations, resulting in the loss of at least 10% of refinery capacity.
During August–September, 360 gas stations in Russia closed due to the fuel shortage.
Currently, every 50th gas station in Russia no longer sells gasoline, and the Russian authorities, due to the fuel deficit, have decided to extend the ban on gasoline exports until the end of October.
