Russia's ongoing fuel crisis has been significantly worsened by Ukraine's intensified drone strikes on occupied territories, according to BBC-Business. The strikes have disrupted Moscow's supply lines, particularly affecting Crimea, which has been experiencing severe logistical difficulties and fuel shortages.
Impact on Logistics and Supply Lines
Ukraine's campaign has targeted key infrastructure, including a motorway and bridge connecting Rostov to Crimea via Mariupol. Clément Molin, an analyst at Atum Mundi, noted that Ukraine has conducted 300 drone strikes on trucks, including 30 tankers, since May. This has led to long queues at petrol stations in Crimea, with residents waiting up to 10 hours for fuel.
Fuel Shortages and Economic Impact
The shortages have forced local authorities to limit fuel purchases to 20 litres per person using prepaid vouchers. Sergei Aksyonov, the Kremlin-appointed regional head, admitted that current demand for fuel cannot be fully met, leading to hundreds of buses remaining in depots.
Military and Civilian Implications
The strikes have also affected military logistics, with Rybar, a pro-Kremlin military analysis account, stating that the logistics crisis impacts both military and civilian needs. Recent Ukrainian strikes have damaged key infrastructure, including a bridge in Chohnar, further restricting movement.
Strategic and Geopolitical Consequences
Craig Kennedy, an expert in Russia's oil industry, highlighted that Ukraine's strikes have disabled nearly 40% of Russia's primary oil refining capacity. The focus has shifted from large refineries to smaller distribution networks, intensifying the impact on local populations and military operations.
"This is having a more focused or concentrated impact on local populations and the military in certain regions such as Crimea," Kennedy said.
Broader Regional Effects
The strikes have also affected other occupied regions like Luhansk and Kherson. Yevhen Karas, commander of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces, emphasized the priority of disrupting Russia's military logistics. The strikes have led to restrictions on civilian movement on key roads, with authorities urging residents to avoid certain routes for security reasons.
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