Fuel shortages in Russia deepen, Moscow considers imports from abroad

Russia is discussing possible imports of motor fuels with other countries in an effort to stabilise its domestic market. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said this today, according to DPA. He said imports would depend on prices being acceptable.

Peskov did not name the countries from which Russia—until now considered an oil power—might begin importing motor fuels. However, he said contacts were in place, the Russian state news agency TASS reported. According to Peskov, the move would help stabilise the market and prevent the current “panic buying” at Russian petrol stations.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak also cited imports as a possible measure to ensure stability in the domestic motor fuel market.

Ukraine, which is now in the fifth year of facing a large-scale Russian invasion, has intensified its attacks on Russian territory in recent months. It has repeatedly targeted Russian refineries, among other sites. Kyiv aims to disrupt fuel supplies to the Russian army and curb Moscow’s energy-sector revenues, which are important for financing the war.

Many regions of Russia, as well as occupied Ukrainian territories, are now facing growing fuel shortages. Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin acknowledged over the weekend that Ukrainian drone attacks, particularly on energy infrastructure, had caused problems. He said that while some shortages were evident, they were not critical.