Russia Running Out Of Fuel? Kremlin Bans Exports After Ukraine Drone Strikes

Last Updated:September 25, 2025, 21:30 IST

Russia extended its fuel export ban amid worsening gasoline and diesel shortages, especially in Crimea.

Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting of the Military-Industrial Commission in Perm, Russia. (AP photo)

Russia extended its ban on fuel exports until the end of the year as gasoline and diesel shortages worsen across the country and in occupied Crimea, following a surge in Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries, fuel trains and pumping stations. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced the embargo, saying some diesel fuel exports would also be restricted.

Alexander Novak acknowledged there was “indeed a slight shortage of petroleum products” but insisted supplies were “being covered by accumulated reserves.”

Drone Strikes Disrupt Supply Chains

Kyiv has stepped up drone strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, targeting oil refineries and fuel storage sites in an effort to disrupt supply chains. The Ukrainian Air Force said it struck multiple facilities this week, including a major refinery in Bashkortostan operated by Gazprom. Russian officials initially blamed the shortages on “logistical reasons” and promised an easing of supply constraints but reports from across the country indicate the situation has deteriorated.

The pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia reported that gas stations in several regions have begun rationing fuel, limiting the amount each customer can buy. Independent outlet Kommersant said the situation is especially severe in Crimea, where about half of gas pumps are now out of service. The Russian-imposed governor of the occupied peninsula admitted to “reduced production” at refineries.

Videos circulating on social media show long queues at the few functioning gas stations. The Telegram channel Crimean Wind reported that Sevastopol was completely out of gasoline this week, with tankers emptied within hours of arrival. Prices have jumped by about a third compared to last month.

Russia is one of the world’s largest producers of diesel fuel and energy exports are a major source of state revenue. Moscow had already restricted gasoline exports earlier this year- first partially in March, then more widely in July- but the latest blanket ban shows Kremlin’s struggle to contain the fallout from Ukraine’s intensified strikes.

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