Russia imposes tough fuel rations on citizens, intelligence reports
Photo: Fuel crisis worsens in Russia (Getty Images)
Russia’s fuel crisis is deepening. Moscow has introduced gasoline limits and is being forced to urgently buy fuel from Belarus, according to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service.
"Russia is forced to urgently purchase fuel from Belarus, which is ramping up supplies and taking advantage of the situation," the intelligence service said.
It noted that after Crimea, Zabaykalsky Krai, and Primorye, the gasoline shortage has now reached the Kuril Islands. As of August 20, restrictions were introduced there as well: a maximum of 10 liters per person, with priority given to security services, emergency services, and businesses.
"For the population, this is yet another confirmation that the fuel crisis is rapidly worsening," intelligence added.
Fuel crisis in Russia
Earlier, the media reported that Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries disabled part of Russia’s refining capacity, leaving the market with an acute gasoline shortage.
Wholesale gasoline prices in Russia have hit record highs. On August 20, a ton of A-95 gasoline on the exchange cost 55% more than at the start of the year, and 8% more than at the beginning of August.
The crisis forced Moscow to suspend gasoline exports to keep refined products in the domestic market. However, this measure has failed to contain rising prices and the deepening shortage.
