A severe nationwide fuel crisis has gripped Russia as persistent Ukrainian drone and missile strikes target domestic oil infrastructure, forcing gas stations across almost all 83 regions to implement rationing and purchase limits.
The long-range aerial campaign has damaged roughly one-third of the country's refining capacity, causing Russian gasoline production to plummet 25% year-on-year and forcing Moscow to explore fuel imports from Belarus, Kazakhstan, and India.
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Frustration is growing among motorists who face waits of up to 18 hours, prompting authorities in some regions to declare a state of heightened alert and deploy Cossack patrols to maintain order.
"Not happy," said Yekaterina, a driver in Moscow.
She noted there was "panic because everybody thinks there will be no oil" but added "we just need to reorganise the oil distribution."
"Very bad," said Elmar, another driver who complained about rising prices. "You are wasting hours to fill up," he said.
"At the moment I am planning a trip to Dagestan but I don't know if I should drive there or not because there are so many problems with petrol."
When asked who was to blame for the crisis, he smiled knowingly.
"In our country, you can't say what is to blame and who is to blame," he said.
Another queuing driver expressed surprise at facing fuel shortages in a major oil-producing nation. "I have no desire to get used to queues," said Valery.
"I hope the situation will change soon and won't be continued."
