Russia is facing a severe fuel crisis as Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries continue to escalate. The crisis, which started in Russian-controlled Crimea, has now spread to almost all of Russia’s 83 regions. Many gas stations are imposing rationing, and long lines of cars are forming as people wait to fill up.

Fuel Shortages and Rationing

The Russian government is racing to get ahead of the crisis, but experts say the situation is much worse than last year’s fuel shortages. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that the strikes are designed to create uncertainty and lead to a schism in Russian society. The governor of Irkutsk, one of the worst-affected regions, has imposed a state of heightened alert and banned sales in canisters to anyone except emergency services.

Drivers in Moscow are waiting in line for hours to fill up, and some gas stations are limiting purchases. The situation is becoming increasingly tense, with reports of arguments and fights breaking out at gas stations. The Russian government is also cracking down on those trying to profit from the crisis, with police fining people for reselling gas on the black market at inflated prices.

Impact on the Russian People

The fuel crisis is having a significant impact on the Russian people, with many struggling to get to work or travel. The situation is also affecting the economy, with experts warning that the crisis could lead to higher inflation and lower economic growth. The Russian government is considering measures to deal with the crisis, including shortening planned maintenance schedules at refineries and increasing imports.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.