President Vladimir Putin on Monday acknowledged fuel shortages in Russia and announced the formation of a task force to ensure stable supplies. Speaking at a meeting of senior officials focused on fuel supply and distribution, Putin attributed the shortages to Ukrainian drone strikes on oil installations.
Task Force Established to Address Crisis
Putin ordered the creation of a dedicated task force to coordinate efforts across government agencies and energy companies. The group is tasked with minimizing the impact of the strikes and restoring normal fuel distribution. Officials emphasized that the task force would work around the clock to resolve bottlenecks.
Ukrainian Drone Strikes Blamed
According to Putin, the shortages are a direct result of repeated Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil refineries and storage facilities. These strikes have disrupted refining capacity and logistics, leading to localized fuel deficits. The president stressed the need to protect critical infrastructure and expedite repairs.
“We must minimize the effects of these strikes on our citizens and economy,” Putin said, according to Reuters. He called for rapid restoration of damaged facilities and improved air defense systems.
Impact on Regions and Consumers
Fuel shortages have been reported in several Russian regions, with some gas stations limiting sales and prices rising. The task force will prioritize supplies to agricultural and industrial sectors, as well as essential services. Officials assured that strategic reserves would be tapped if necessary.
Energy experts warn that sustained attacks could further strain supply chains, especially as Russia enters peak summer demand. The government has not disclosed the full extent of the damage or timeline for recovery.
