(MOSCOW, RUSSIA) – Russia is experiencing a worsening gasoline crisis, forcing the government to import fuel and lower environmental standards, despite official claims that the economy is thriving.
The fuel shortages have led to kilometre long queues at petrol stations, particularly in southern regions such as Krasnodar, as oil refineries undergo maintenance following drone strikes and the logistics network struggles to cope.
In response, the Kremlin has urgently authorised the production of lower quality Euro-2 and Euro-3 fuel and has started importing petrol from abroad. This marks a significant shift for a country that has long presented itself as an energy superpower.
The situation has prompted Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak to publicly address what the government describes as temporary difficulties. However, these issues have become chronic.
Adding to the controversy, local officials have offered a simple explanation for the chaos: holidaymakers. The mayor of Krymsk blamed the extensive queues on thousands of Russians returning from vacation, rather than on refinery disruptions or logistical failures.
Residents in the Krasnodar region and other southern areas are documenting the reality on social media, showing long lines at petrol stations where fuel is either unavailable or prices are soaring.
Be First to Comment