Russia is considering fuel imports and subsidies to stabilize domestic gasoline and diesel supplies after repeated Ukrainian drone strikes disrupted refinery operations across the country, according to reports on Tuesday.
The proposals were discussed during a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak on Monday, as authorities seek to curb rising fuel prices and prevent shortages from fuelling broader inflation.
The world’s third-largest crude producer has faced mounting pressure on its fuel market after attacks on oil refineries forced Moscow to halt exports of gasoline and jet fuel while redirecting supplies to domestic consumers.
Several Russian regions have reported long queues at filling stations, restrictions on fuel sales and increasing prices, highlighting the growing impact of refinery outages on the country’s energy sector.
In Russian-controlled Crimea, the city of Sevastopol introduced new emergency measures aimed at conserving resources and strengthening security, including reduced public transport hours, earlier closures of large shops and cafes, and dimmed street lighting.
The restrictions add to previously announced limits on fuel purchases and a ban on large outdoor gatherings in the strategic Black Sea port, home to Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.
Industry sources said Russia’s gasoline production last week was about 25% below the average daily level recorded in June 2025, reflecting the scale of refinery disruptions.
Data from LSEG and market participants showed Russia’s seaborne exports of refined oil products fell by around 15% in the first half of June compared with the previous month due to unplanned maintenance following drone attacks.
Sources familiar with the matter said fuel imports by sea are expected to begin in June as authorities move to address shortages and rebuild inventories.
The measures underscore the growing economic and logistical challenges facing Russia’s energy sector as the conflict with Ukraine increasingly affects domestic fuel production and distribution.