Fuel Sales Restricted Across Russia
Starting June 12, 2026, major gas station chains in Moscow and St. Petersburg imposed purchase limits on fuel due to shortages triggered by strikes on oil refineries. The scarcity has also spread to the Krasnodar region, Rostov Oblast, and temporarily occupied Crimea, where the black market price for AI-95 gasoline has soared to 160 rubles per liter.
Purchase Caps on Fuel
At Tatneft stations in Moscow, customers are now limited to 20 liters of AI-92 or AI-95 gasoline and 40 liters of diesel fuel. Similar restrictions are in place at Tatneft locations in St. Petersburg. Rosneft stations in Moscow cap purchases at 90 liters per tank or canister. Lukoil outlets allow no more than 100 liters of gasoline or diesel per transaction. Additionally, the ORTK chain, operating in the Moscow region, introduced its own sales limits on June 2.
Previously, Rosneft and Tatneft denied any general restrictions, but the situation has since changed. Lukoil had earlier reported a 100-liter limit on gasoline sales, with no diesel cap. The fuel shortage has also hit the Crimean peninsula, where online platforms now offer targeted fuel delivery in cities like Simferopol and Yalta.
“The consequences of regular Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries and fuel infrastructure have led to a fuel deficit on the domestic market of the Russian Federation.” - GLAVKOM
These shortages have prompted restrictions on aircraft refueling at several major regional airports. In response, black market prices have climbed, with a liter of AI-95 gasoline in Crimea reaching up to 160 rubles.
The introduction of fuel purchase limits in Moscow and St. Petersburg underscores serious disruptions to Russia's energy infrastructure caused by external factors. Rising black market prices and fuel scarcity could negatively impact transportation and the broader economy. The situation demands close monitoring, as further strikes on refineries might worsen the fuel market conditions.
The ongoing fuel crisis has not only impacted Moscow and St. Petersburg but has also extended its reach to other regions. For a comprehensive understanding of how this situation is affecting areas like Krasnodar and Rostov, as well as the broader implications for Russia's energy sector, see our detailed report on the fuel shortages in these key regions.