Putin’s Approval Tanks as Russians Fight in Gas Lines — Ukraine Drone Strikes Hit 83 Regions
Fuel shortages have sparked widespread chaos across Russia, with residents from Irkutsk to Krasnodar fighting in long lines for gasoline after a wave of Ukrainian drone strikes crippled the country’s fuel supply infrastructure.
According to a CNN analysis, nearly all of Russia’s 83 regions are now facing gasoline shortages or supply disruptions [191627]. The crisis began in Russian-controlled Crimea but has spread nationwide as Ukraine intensified drone attacks on oil refineries and fuel depots [191627][193933]. Many gas stations have started rationing fuel, limiting how much each driver can buy [191627]. Reports from across the country show residents waiting in long lines at gas stations as disruptions hit their daily lives [194968]. As a result, President Vladimir Putin’s approval ratings are falling [195755].
The attacks have reduced Russia’s diesel and gasoline output, forcing Moscow to cut shipments to neighboring countries [192304]. The fuel crisis is now spreading into Central Asia, with Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan reporting shortages and rising prices as they rely on Russian fuel imports [192304]. In some areas, gas stations have limited sales to drivers, threatening to slow economic activity across the region [192304]. Central Asian governments are seeking alternative suppliers, but options remain limited [192304].
Russian authorities have not announced a timeline for restoring normal fuel distribution, and the situation remains tense [194968][191627]. The fuel shortages are affecting daily life and raising concerns about the economy [191627].