Ukraine drone strikes cause Russian fuel crisis
Analysis based on 34 articles · First reported Apr 20, 2026 · Last updated Jul 20, 2026
The sustained attacks on Russian energy infrastructure are reducing Russia's refining capacity and oil production, tightening global fuel markets and supporting oil prices. The disruption also highlights vulnerabilities in Russia's energy sector, potentially increasing geopolitical risk premiums in energy markets.
Ukraine has intensified drone strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including refineries, storage facilities, and shadow fleet tankers in the Sea of Azov, causing widespread fuel shortages across Russia. The attacks have knocked nearly half of Russia's refining capacity offline since late February, leading to fuel rationing, export bans on gasoline and diesel, and long queues at petrol stations. Russia has approached Indian refiners for gasoline supplies, marking a reversal in their energy trade relationship. The International Energy Agency has cut its Russian oil production forecasts for 2026 and 2027 due to the ongoing disruptions. The crisis has affected over 90% of Russian regions, with authorities downplaying the severity while implementing emergency measures.
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