Moscow’s fuel shortages forcing gas stations to impose strict caps on sale
Photo: cars at a Rosneft gas station in Russia (Getty Images)
Amid a record number of strikes on Russian oil refineries, restrictions on the sale of automotive fuel have begun to appear in Moscow and the surrounding region, according to Russian Telegram channels.
According to the Telegram channel VChK-OGPU, gas stations in New Moscow have begun posting notices about temporary restrictions on gasoline sales.
In particular, no more than 60 liters of fuel are sold to one customer. By comparison, in occupied Crimea, the limit is 20 liters per person.
At the same time, The Moscow Times reports that some gas stations have also limited diesel sales to 100 liters per customer. The notices state that such rules will remain in effect "until further notice."
The situation is linked to a fuel shortage that emerged after a series of Ukrainian drone strikes on oil refining facilities. Amid difficulties in supplying the domestic market, Russia has also imposed a ban on gasoline exports.
According to Bloomberg, Ukraine carried out 16 attacks on Russian oil refineries over the past month, marking a record high since the start of the full-scale war. Oil pipelines, fuel depots, and port infrastructure involved in petroleum product exports were also targeted.
Earlier, Reuters reported that diesel production in Russia has been declining for the second consecutive month due to Ukrainian strikes on refineries. According to the agency, diesel output in May fell by about 10% compared to April.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service stated that gasoline sales in Russia's domestic market are becoming increasingly unprofitable for gas station operators. The intelligence service links this to rising costs, logistical problems, sanctions pressure, and the prioritization of petroleum exports.
