Since the start of 2026, Ukraine has sharply increased drone strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure, triggering what the Atlantic Council describes as the country’s worst fuel crisis since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Refinery disruptions and fuel shortages have left gas stations struggling to keep supplies available, with fights and public frustration breaking out at some fuel pumps.
The crisis has forced Moscow to restrict fuel exports, introduce rationing and import gasoline from India. The impact is also spreading to Russian-occupied territories and countries that depend on Moscow for energy, exposing weaknesses in Russia’s ability to maintain its regional influence.
If the shortages continue, the fuel crisis could increase domestic unrest while pushing Russia’s neighbors to seek alternative energy supplies and reduce their dependence on Moscow.
