Fuel shortages have returned to parts of Russia in August, with authorities in at least 10 regions tightening controls on gasoline sales at petrol stations.
Reuters witnesses on Monday reported gasoline shortages at some stations in the Moscow region, although diesel remained available at most outlets.
The renewed disruptions follow a fuel crisis that began gaining momentum in May and spread to almost all Russian regions by July.
The shortages have been driven largely by refinery shutdowns following drone attacks on Russian energy facilities, combined with a seasonal increase in domestic fuel demand.
Russian authorities had responded by banning gasoline and diesel exports, easing fuel quality requirements and arranging imports of refined petroleum products to strengthen domestic supplies.
By the end of July, fuel availability had improved, allowing some regional authorities to lift or ease restrictions on sales.
However, a new wave of drone attacks on oil refineries in late July and early August has once again disrupted production and fuel distribution.
The Russian government said on Friday that fuel supplies remained difficult in several regions, including Orenburg, Lipetsk, Tver, Krasnodar, Zabaykalsky, Primorsky, Krasnoyarsk, Oryol, Tuva and Khakassia.
The latest shortages are putting renewed pressure on Russia’s domestic fuel market, with gasoline sales on the St. Petersburg International Mercantile Exchange falling by about 20% in early August compared with the second half of July.
The developments highlight the continuing strain on Russia’s fuel supply system as refinery disruptions and strong seasonal demand make it harder for authorities to maintain adequate gasoline supplies across the country.