Ukraine’s attacks on Russian fuel infrastructure are deepening disruptions in Russia’s supply, triggering growing shortages and long lines at gas stations in multiple regions.

Reports from across Russia show residents spending hours—or in some places days—searching for stations still able to sell fuel. People have driven across entire cities to refuel, with tempers reportedly flaring and conflicts breaking out in queues.

In recent months, Ukraine has increasingly used drone strikes against Russian oil refineries. One of the latest incidents cited by observers was an attack on the Omsk refinery on July 6. Analysts and reporting described a broader campaign that has struck major refineries across Russia, from the Leningrad region to Omsk, leaving the overall system under further strain.

While some Russian officials and authorities have denied a systemic shortage—attributing problems to panic buying and localized supply issues—regional administrations have continued to describe rising pressure on fuel access. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak and other officials have framed the situation as one that can be managed through restructuring and demand changes, even as residents report escalating practical difficulties at the pump