Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged that the country is facing fuel shortages as the war in Ukraine continues to affect energy infrastructure and fuel supplies.
Speaking during a meeting on fuel supply and distribution on Monday, Putin said long queues at petrol stations and shortages of certain fuel grades continue to affect motorists and businesses across Russia, per a report by Hindustan Times.
"You know very well that problems for motorists and businesses persist. Unfortunately, there are also queues at gas stations," Putin said.
He added, "The right grade of gasoline isn’t always available right now."
Drone strikes add to supply concerns
Putin said Ukrainian drone attacks on oil facilities have contributed to the current difficulties and stressed the need to protect energy infrastructure.
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"We have to reduce to a minimum the impact of terrorist attacks on our civilian targets and infrastructure."
The Russian president said a special task force is working continuously to address the shortages and improve fuel distribution.
According to Putin, the situation requires "systemic measures that match the scale of current challenges" to maintain adequate supplies and keep fuel prices under control.
❗️Putin admitted problems in the Russian fuel industry:
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) June 28, 2026
"You know well that problems both for vehicle drivers and business remain.
And, unfortunately, there are also lines at gas stations. You can't always find the type of fuel you need.
And, of course, we understand the… https://t.co/K0tnLfV2oY pic.twitter.com/r3ZIXMvtlE
Diesel export restrictions under discussion
Russia is also considering a complete ban on diesel exports to stabilise domestic supplies.
Putin warned against taking measures that could create new problems for oil producers.
"We have gathered here to prevent any steps that may be unnecessary. We should not create additional issues for ourselves," he was quoted as saying by HT.
While some officials have advised against imposing an export ban for now, discussions within the government continue.
Agriculture and fuel supply remain priorities
Putin said ensuring sufficient fuel supplies for the agricultural sector remains a key priority as the harvesting season approaches.
"We need to make every effort to ensure that all seasonal fuel supply schedules are maintained for agro-industrial enterprises, because the harvest depends on it," Putin said.
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He also stated that Russia's gasoline reserves remain close to last year's levels and that refinery operations are running at maximum capacity.
On Sunday, Putin described the current situation as a "difficult period" for the country.
"We are going through a difficult period, but it has taught us much," he said while addressing members of the ruling United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections.
The fuel shortage comes as Ukraine has increased strikes on Russian oil and industrial infrastructure in recent months.
FAQs:
Why is Russia facing fuel shortages?
Russia says attacks on oil infrastructure and supply disruptions have contributed to the shortages.
Is Russia planning to ban diesel exports?
The government is discussing the proposal, though no final decision has been announced.
