Russia Faces Fuel Shortages Amid Global Conflict; Putin Sets Up Task Force for Supplies

Russia faces major fuel shortages amid global conflict and energy crises. President Vladimir Putin acknowledged these issues during a meeting with senior officials on Sunday, where he stated that Russia was working to ensure sufficient fuel supplies throughout the country.

Putin addressed ongoing problems for drivers and businesses, including queues at gas stations, due to Ukrainian drone strikes on oil installations. He called for measures to secure supplies for the agricultural sector, noting that gasoline reserves now stand at 1.7 million metric tons, with July production expected to exceed June levels.

A ban on diesel exports is under consideration, as Russia seeks fuel imports from Asian markets and Belarus to address a daily gasoline deficit of approximately 25,000 tons. The disruption is particularly severe in annexed Crimea, where motorists must use QR codes for fuel access. Jet fuel exports have been banned until November 30, while existing restrictions on gasoline and diesel remain in place.