Russia plunges into fuel shortage crisis as lorries queue for miles

Dramatic footage shows mile-long queues of lorries and cars snaking outside Russian petrol stations as Ukrainian drone strikes trigger a severe nationwide fuel crisis. Russia is grappling with its most severe fuel crisis in years, with motorists and hauliers enduring marathon waits amid widespread shortages. From Moscow to Siberia and occupied Crimea, stations have imposed rationing, limiting sales to as little as 20 litres per vehicle. Some drivers report queueing for up to 13 hours.

President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the shortages on Sunday, admitting Ukrainian attacks were causing a “certain deficit”. He said: “Problems persist for motorists and businesses,” citing queues and difficulties obtaining fuel grades. He called the situation non-critical and pledged more air defences plus repairs.

Ukraine’s intensifying drone campaign has hit key refineries and supply lines, cutting processing capacity by up to 30%.

Strikes have disrupted fuel deliveries to the front, slowing Russian advances in eastern and southern Ukraine.

In Crimea, civilian sales are heavily restricted to prioritise the military, leaving residents and visitors facing empty pumps and QR-code rationing. Putin noted the peninsula had mere days of supply at one stage.

Over 50 of Russia’s 83 regions report issues, threatening agriculture during harvest season and raising transport costs. Public frustration is mounting, challenging Kremlin efforts to shield the home front.

Kyiv’s drone prowess has made it a global leader in the technology, forcing Moscow to divert resources. Analysts note declining Russian battlefield performance in 2026.

The Kremlin insists its offensive continues unabated. Dmitry Peskov said goals in Ukraine would be achieved, while Putin dismissed the strikes as futile attempts to weaken resolve.

Meanwhile, Russian attacks killed at least 12 Ukrainian civilians on Monday, striking infrastructure in Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and other regions, leaving thousands without power. Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Europe to bolster anti-ballistic defences.

The crisis highlights the war’s reach into Russia, potentially straining its economy and morale as repairs lag behind Ukraine’s relentless campaign.