Ukrainian drone attacks cut a third of Russia's refining capacity, sparking petrol shortages

Ukrainian drone strikes have disabled roughly one‑third of Russia’s oil‑refining capacity, according to statements from the Russian energy ministry. The attacks, which targeted major facilities in the western and southern parts of the country, have led to a sharp reduction in domestic fuel production and have been confirmed as the primary cause of the recent petrol shortages.

The loss of refining output is now affecting more than half of Russia’s federal subjects, with gasoline supplies dwindling at service stations and local authorities reporting intermittent pump closures. Officials have warned that the shortages could persist until repairs are completed, while the government is reportedly reallocating fuel stocks from less‑affected regions to mitigate the disruption.