Vladimir Putin publicly acknowledged on June 28 that Russia is dealing with fuel shortages caused by Ukrainian drone strikes on its oil refineries. He described the situation as “a certain shortage” across various regions, while carefully adding the caveat that things are “not critical.”

The damage to Russia’s refining infrastructure

Ukrainian drone campaigns targeting Russian refineries have slashed refining capacity by as much as 20% during peak attack days. Fuel rationing is now active in at least 16 Russian regions. The shortages have spread well beyond the conflict’s immediate geographic vicinity, reaching Siberia and the Far East.

The escalation traces back to August 2025, when Ukraine intensified its drone strategy to specifically target energy infrastructure deep inside Russian territory.

The Russian Ministry of Energy has resorted to measures that would have seemed unthinkable for one of the world’s largest oil producers. Sales restrictions now cap the amount of fuel each vehicle can purchase, and supply is being prioritized for essential services. Reports suggest over 50 regions are now experiencing some degree of fuel disruption.

Moscow’s response plan

The Russian government has formed a dedicated task force to stabilize fuel supplies. The plan involves a multi-pronged approach: importing gasoline by sea, fast-tracking repairs on damaged refinery infrastructure, and strengthening air defense systems around key energy installations.

Officials have stressed that essential social obligations will continue to be met.