Several regions in Russia are facing significant fuel shortages following Ukraine's recent drone attacks on the country's oil refineries. In the Orenburg region, a rationing system has been implemented, permitting only drivers with specific license plates to purchase limited amounts of gasoline and diesel, as reported by Bloomberg. The shortages began after a major oil refinery in the Orsk region was struck on Tuesday, with officials estimating that repairs could take up to six months. Regional Governor Yevgeny Solntsev stated that preparations are underway for a worst-case scenario. A similar rationing system has also been introduced in the Lipetsk region.
According to Bloomberg, Ukraine has targeted 10 out of 34 major oil refineries in Russia, which are crucial for funding President Vladimir Putin's military operations and supporting the economy. For several months, Ukraine has been conducting drone strikes on these facilities to exert pressure on Russia to end the ongoing conflict, which has now entered its fifth year. Additionally, Ukraine has expanded its campaign to include attacks on warehouses and facilities associated with Wildberries, Russia's largest online retailer.
Kyiv has resumed almost daily drone attacks on oil refineries, impacting the Russian economy and fuel supplies. Voronezh Governor Alexander Gusev indicated that the situation is deteriorating, with fuel being redirected to regions facing more severe shortages. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to the drone strikes as "long-range sanctions," emphasizing Ukraine's response to Russia's actions and calling for an end to the conflict.