Introduction to the Fuel Crisis
The situation regarding fuel supply in the temporarily occupied territory of Crimea has sharply deteriorated. Starting May 31, the region is implementing strict restrictions on the sale of AI-92 and AI-95 gasoline. Local authorities, led by Sergey Aksyonov, have announced a transition to a coupon system and priority service for certain categories of consumers. This decision is a direct consequence of the destruction of logistical chains linking the peninsula with mainland Russia.
New Rules: Coupons and Limits
According to a statement by Aksyonov published in his Telegram channel, the rules of the game at gas stations will change radically with the start of the new month. AI-95 gasoline will be distributed primarily for the needs of municipal and social transport. For other categories of citizens, the sale of this type of fuel will be carried out exclusively via coupons. At a number of gas stations, access to AI-95 will be completely closed without special permission.
Owners of vehicles running on the more affordable AI-92 gasoline will face different, but no less tangible, difficulties. They will be allowed to refuel no more than 20 liters per visit to the gas station. This means that drivers will have to visit gas stations significantly more often to keep their vehicles operational. Furthermore, a strict ban on dispensing fuel into jerry cans has been introduced. Residents are prohibited from taking gasoline with them in containers, which effectively blocks the possibility of creating household reserves.
Causes of the Deficit: Blows to Logistics
The root cause of the fuel collapse has been the successful actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Intensive strikes on the 'Crimea — Donetsk' corridor have inflicted critical damage on the occupiers' logistics. This route was a key artery for the transfer of cargo, including fuel. As a result of the destruction of infrastructure, the Russian occupiers are left with only one reliable path — the so-called Crimean Bridge, whose capacity is insufficient to meet the peninsula's growing needs.
Strikes on the Oil Refining Industry
The situation is exacerbated by systematic attacks on oil refineries (ORs) in Russia. On May 28, Ukrainian forces struck the Tuapse Oil Refinery — one of the largest enterprises in the south of the country. This facility played a key role in fuel production, including for the needs of the Russian army. The successful neutralization of such objects leads to a reduction in the total volume of available fuel, which immediately affects the deficit in frontline and occupied regions.
Forecast for the Month
Sergey Aksyonov attempted to reassure the population, stating that the situation might normalize within the next 30 days. However, experts note that the fuel crisis in Russia is systemic and is deepening under the impact of constant strikes by Ukrainian drones. As long as logistical nodes and production capacities remain vulnerable, the prospects for a quick restoration of normal supply remain hazy.