Date: June 23, 2026 l Reporter: Kingston Bill
Russia is considering importing fuel and introducing subsidies to stabilize domestic prices after sustained Ukrainian attacks disrupted refinery operations and tightened fuel supplies across parts of the country, according to reports cited by Russian media and government discussions.
The discussions reportedly took place during a government meeting chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak as officials examined measures to address growing shortages of gasoline and diesel. Authorities are evaluating temporary imports and financial support mechanisms aimed at limiting price increases and maintaining domestic availability.
The supply pressure follows months of Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure, particularly oil refineries and logistics facilities that form a critical part of the country’s fuel network. Reduced refinery activity has contributed to lower output and constrained distribution across several regions.
Reports indicate Russia’s gasoline production has fallen significantly compared with previous levels, while exports of refined products have also declined because of refinery outages. In response, Moscow has already imposed restrictions on gasoline and jet fuel exports in an effort to prioritize domestic demand.
Fuel shortages and rationing measures have appeared across multiple regions, with local authorities introducing sales limits and controls intended to reduce panic buying and preserve supplies for essential services. Some areas have reported queues at filling stations and temporary restrictions on fuel purchases.
Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of attempting to destabilize Russian society through attacks on civilian-linked infrastructure, while Ukraine has maintained that strikes on energy assets are intended to reduce resources supporting Russia’s military operations.
The possibility of Russia importing fuel marks an unusual development for one of the world’s largest oil producers and exporters, underscoring how continued pressure on refining infrastructure is increasingly affecting domestic energy markets.