Russian authorities and fuel retailers have introduced strict limits on gasoline sales at stations across the country and occupied territories [1].
These restrictions signal a growing vulnerability in Russia's domestic energy infrastructure. The shortages follow a series of attacks on oil refineries and disruptions to supply chains that have hampered the state's ability to distribute fuel [1, 2].
In Moscow and other regions, some retailers have implemented specific caps to manage dwindling stocks. Tatnafta stations limited gasoline sales to 30 liters per vehicle [1]. Similar restrictions were reported in the Belgorod and Kursk regions, though specific quantities were not disclosed [2].
The crisis extends to Crimea, where the situation has become more restrictive. In Sevastopol and other areas of the peninsula, gasoline sales for AI-95 fuel were limited to 20 liters per person per day [3]. Some reports indicate that coupons or tokens are being used to manage these daily allotments [3].
These measures reflect a fragmented response to the fuel crisis, with limits varying by region and provider. While some stations rely on per-vehicle caps, others have shifted to per-person daily limits to prevent hoarding, and ensure basic mobility [1, 3].
Russian officials have not provided a timeline for when these limits will be lifted. The impact of the refinery strikes continues to ripple through the logistics network, affecting both civilian transport and commercial operations in the border regions [1, 2].
“Tatnafta stations limited gasoline sales to 30 liters per vehicle”
The imposition of fuel rationing in major hubs like Moscow and strategic areas like Crimea suggests that Russia's refining capacity has reached a critical tipping point. By shifting from a free market to a quota-based system, the government is attempting to prevent total societal paralysis while prioritizing essential services and military logistics over civilian consumption.
