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Russia Faces Intensifying Energy Crisis as Ukrainian Drone Strikes Target Key Oil Refineries

Russia is grappling with a severe energy crisis as Ukrainian drone strikes continue to target the nation's oil refineries, causing significant domestic fuel shortages and rationing. The administration announced that while some refineries are back in operation, the situation remains dynamic. Data from the fuel tracking portal BenZinMap shows that refining capacity has fallen by nearly a third, with many regions experiencing sharp price increases and long queues at gas stations. To mitigate the crisis, the administration has implemented measures such as export bans, increased imports from allies like Belarus and India, and relaxed fuel-quality standards. While major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg have received priority fuel shipments, other regions have faced more severe disruptions. In some areas, such as the Kirov region, fuel availability has dropped significantly. The crisis has also impacted neighboring Central Asian nations, forcing countries like Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to seek new oil sources and subsidize petrol prices. Despite the administration's efforts to stabilize the market, retail gasoline prices have risen by 7.4% this year, outpacing overall inflation. The situation remains a challenge as Russia faces a seasonal rise in demand and scheduled maintenance shutdowns.

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