Putin Downplays Fuel Shortages Amid Ukraine's Refinery Strikes
Russian President Vladimir Putin has described ongoing fuel shortages in the country as "not critical," even as Ukraine intensifies attacks on Russian oil refineries. Speaking at a government meeting, Putin acknowledged a "difficult period" but insisted the situation is temporary and that measures are being taken to address it.
Ukraine has launched more than 50 strikes on Russian energy facilities since March, according to reports. Ukrainian leaders say the attacks aim to pressure Moscow to end the war. The strikes have reportedly cut off about one-third of Russia's refining capacity, according to Chris Weafer, CEO of Macro-Advisory consultancy. Gasoline production has fallen by roughly 17 percent to 850,000 barrels per day, government data shows.
Rationing has been introduced in many regions, with motorists facing long queues. In Crimea, illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, gasoline sales to individuals have been periodically halted. The government has allowed production of lower-quality gasoline with higher sulfur content through year-end to ease the deficit.
In televised remarks, Putin pledged to accelerate repairs and said Russia may import gasoline to cover temporary shortages. He also said the arms industry would boost air defense production. Putin framed the Ukrainian strikes as an attempt to divide Russian society and force negotiations on terms favorable to Kyiv, adding, "We will not give them that chance."
While Putin claimed the strikes have "absolutely no effect" on the front, Western analysts say mid-range strikes have hampered Russian logistics and slowed advances, contributing to a battlefield stalemate. The war, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, has seen heavy casualties. A recent Russian missile barrage on Kyiv killed at least 30 people in one of the deadliest attacks on the capital in months.
Putin has rejected ceasefire proposals, insisting the war will continue until his goals are met. He challenged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to meet in Moscow, a proposal Ukraine has dismissed. The conflict shows no signs of resolution, with both sides continuing military operations.
