Putin admits 'some shortage' as fuel supplies in Crimea last only days
Russian President Vladimir Putin (photo: Getty Images)
Russia has publicly acknowledged that the Ukrainian Defense Forces' strikes on critical infrastructure cause problems. However, the Kremlin also insisted that any resulting shortages are not critical, according to Russian propagandist Pavel Zarubin, citing Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Acknowledgment of shortages
Putin admitted that Ukrainian strikes on the Russian energy infrastructure have an impact. He said that Russia is seeing some shortages, but not critical ones.
"As for strikes on critically important infrastructure, particularly energy infrastructure, these strikes are creating problems. That is obvious," Putin said.
Air defense expansion task
The first task outlined by the Russian leader in response to Ukrainian actions is to rapidly increase production of air defense systems. He acknowledged that Ukraine is receiving new drones with advanced technologies from European partners.
"The first task is to quickly and significantly increase production of the most in-demand air defense systems. Continuously improve them in line with the needs of combat operations," Putin said.
He also noted that Russia needs to exit repairs faster and establish the necessary level of imports.
Only days of reserves in Crimea
One of the most notable admissions concerned Crimea. Putin said the monthly energy supply needs of the occupied peninsula are around 70,000 tons, but current reserves would last only a few days.
"In Crimea, there are currently reserves for a few days, but needs will be met. We will increase supplies both by land and sea. I believe this task will be solved," he said.
Putin also claimed that Ukrainian strikes are not just military operations but part of an alleged information operation against Russia.
According to him, the goal of the attacks is to sow uncertainty among Russians, create internal divisions, and force Moscow to halt its offensive to negotiate on terms favorable to the opponent.
"We will not allow such a chance," he said.
'No impact on front line'
Finally, Putin described Ukrainian strikes as terrorist raids and insisted they have no impact on the situation on the battlefield.
"All strikes, no matter where they are carried out against our infrastructure, do not affect the situation at the front or the line of contact," he said.
Notably, the fuel market of the Russian Federation is currently facing a crisis due to strikes at oil refineries, with gasoline prices reaching record highs over the past 20 years.
Due to shortages, dozens of regions have introduced fuel sales restrictions, including the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug, which produces about 40% of Russia's oil.
Moscow has also requested 50,000 tons of AI-92 gasoline from Kazakhstan and has officially opened fuel imports to stabilize the domestic market.
