Ukraine Drone Strikes Cripple Russia’s Fuel Supply

Gasoline shortages are spreading across parts of Russia after a series of successful Ukrainian drone strikes damaged key oil infrastructure. With at least 12 strikes between August 2 and August 24, mostly targeting refineries in the Ryazan-Volgograd corridor, Russia’s fuel supply chain is under mounting stress.

Fuel shortages are hitting hardest in the Far East and Crimea—regions heavily reliant on smaller refineries and long-distance transportation. In the Kuril Islands, authorities suspended public gas sales entirely, while in Crimea, only select drivers with coupons or cards can purchase fuel. In Primorye, prices soared to nearly $3.58 per gallon—over 10% of a typical monthly wage—with desperate drivers selling gas online for as much as $10.12 per gallon.

Ukraine’s strategy focuses on slowing, not outright destroying, Russian refineries. According to analysts, drone strikes are damaging key components like distillation columns, reducing output of gasoline and diesel by up to 250,000 barrels per day. Gasoline production in August dropped by 8.6%, while diesel fell 10.3% year-over-year.

The problem is worsened by rising demand: farmers are harvesting, families are vacationing, and war-disrupted transportation networks are forcing more travel by car. Inflation and sanctions have discouraged suppliers from stockpiling fuel earlier in the year, compounding the crisis.

Moscow remains insulated from the pain, supported by nearby major refineries. But for the rest of the country, particularly in remote areas, the shortfall is causing growing frustration. The Russian government has halted gasoline exports and held emergency meetings with oil executives, but so far, the damage remains localized.

Still, the crisis reveals a serious vulnerability. As Ukraine’s drone capabilities advance, these pressure points could grow—disrupting civilian life and straining the Russian economy further, all without firing a single missile.

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