**Title: Russian Deputy PM Attributes Fuel Shortages to Ukrainian Drone Strikes**
Russia is currently facing significant fuel shortages, which Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak attributes to recent drone strikes by Ukraine targeting the nation's energy infrastructure. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Novak confirmed that the situation has led to a deficit in the fuel market, resulting in long lines at gas stations across the country.
Novak explained that some oil refineries have been temporarily shut down for repairs due to the damage inflicted by the drone strikes. He acknowledged the challenges posed by these disruptions, stating, “there are problems and there is a deficit [on the fuel market], which is why we are seeing lines [at gas stations].”
In response to the shortages, the Russian government is implementing several measures aimed at stabilizing fuel supplies. These include strengthening air defenses around refineries to protect them from further attacks, ensuring that the plants operate at maximum capacity, and dispatching additional fuel to regions that have been most affected by the shortages.
To further mitigate the impact of the fuel crisis, the government has introduced a temporary ban on the export of gasoline and diesel. This measure is intended to stabilize the domestic market and is currently set to remain in effect until July 31.
While major energy companies in Russia have maintained retail fuel prices in line with inflation, Novak expressed concern that some resellers are taking advantage of the situation by raising prices excessively. He urged regulatory bodies to take action against such practices to protect consumers.
The backdrop of these fuel shortages is a marked increase in long-range drone strikes by Ukraine on Russian territory in recent weeks. Targets have included oil refineries, gas compression stations, and fuel tankers, leading to localized fuel supply disruptions, particularly in Crimea.
In a related statement, President Vladimir Putin remarked that Ukraine's objective is not only to damage the Russian economy but also to instill panic among its citizens. He asserted that these efforts would ultimately fail, citing the resilience of Russia's energy system, which he claimed has one of the highest resilience margins globally.
The Kremlin has indicated that it will respond to these Ukrainian drone strikes by intensifying its own military strikes on Ukrainian military-related infrastructure, characterizing the attacks as "terrorist" actions against Russian civilian facilities.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Russian government remains focused on addressing the immediate challenges posed by the fuel shortages while also preparing for potential further escalations in the conflict with Ukraine.