Sevastopol Grapples with Fuel Shortages
On June 21, gasoline sales using pre-issued coupons were halted in occupied Sevastopol due to delayed fuel deliveries. According to Mikhail Razvozhayev, the city's self-appointed governor, 'fuel shipments to the city are behind schedule. As a result, we have to cancel the distribution of fuel via QR codes at TES gas stations today. Currently, refueling is only available for emergency service vehicles.'
Russia's Worsening Fuel Crisis
The fuel crisis across Russia continues to spread into new regions. The Russian government has decided to reduce mandatory fuel sales on the open market in order to reserve supplies for farmers, security forces, and state institutions. Gasoline prices in Russia have risen for five consecutive weeks, reaching their highest level since 2018. In a move that underscores the severity of the situation, Novosibirsk Oblast Governor Andrei Travnikov has ordered local media to downplay public alarm over the shortages.
Additionally, in the fall of 2025, the Russian government approved the supply of fuel with a higher sulfur content. This measure was extended indefinitely in May 2026. These steps highlight the authorities' struggle to manage fuel shortages and rising domestic prices.
The fuel situation in Russia is deteriorating, with consequences felt not only in Sevastopol but also across other regions. Rising gasoline prices and reduced open-market sales point to serious supply chain problems. Government efforts to minimize public anxiety suggest an attempt to control the information landscape during the crisis. The lack of fuel for civilian use could also disrupt the economies of regions that depend on consistent fuel deliveries.
The ongoing fuel crisis has led to significant restrictions, with fuel in Sevastopol now being allocated solely for emergency services. This measure highlights the urgency of the situation and raises concerns about the impact on civilian life and local economies as the shortages deepen. Understanding the full scope of these developments is crucial for grasping the wider implications of the crisis across the region.