Ukraine boosts protection for gas stations in Sumy region as Russian strikes escalate
Operation of gas stations in front-line regions is becoming more complicated (Photo: Getty Images)
In the front-line Sumy region, a mechanism for stably supplying the region with fuel under enemy shelling conditions has been developed, in particular by simplifying the procedures for deploying temporary mobile gas stations, according to a statement from the leadership of the Sumy Regional Military Administration.
Coordination of actions between authorities and market operators
Owners and representatives of fuel networks, heads of communities, heads of district military administrations, as well as the leadership of the State Emergency Service (DSNS), the National Police, and relevant supervisory services, joined the discussion on the operation of gas stations under heightened risk conditions.
The meeting participants identified alternative options for supplying the front-line region with fuel in the event of damage to stationary infrastructure and agreed on enhanced coordination, since the stable operation of gas stations is critical to the life support of communities and the uninterrupted work of emergency services.
New safety requirements at fuel facilities
During the working meeting, clear recommendations and tasks were defined for responsible services and businesses to strengthen the safe operation of the facilities. In particular, stations must be equipped with shelters for staff and visitors, where this has not yet been implemented.
In addition, enhanced engineering protection of facilities is envisaged, including providing workers with necessary personal protective equipment, ensuring timely threat notification, and conducting drills for personnel on proper actions in the event of danger.
Market operators are also obliged to maintain the necessary fuel reserves for the region's needs.
At the same time, the simplification of bureaucratic procedures for mobile gas stations will enable rapid capacity replacement and provide people with gasoline and diesel during the restoration of damaged stationary stations.
From July 1, 2026, the WOG network of filling station complexes introduced a special operating mode in seven regions of Ukraine due to the security situation, which involves closing gas stations at night.
In particular, on the night of July 2, the company urgently closed all its filling stations in Kyiv and the Kyiv region to ensure the safety of staff and customers amid a high risk of mass attack.
