Since the escalation of the conflict with Ukraine, Russia has grappled with severe fuel shortages that sparked panic across Central Asia. Long queues at pumps and record‑high prices forced Moscow to prioritize the rapid restart of its major refineries.

According to refinery operators, most plants are now running at roughly 90% capacity. The Energy Ministry introduced a new logistics framework to prioritize fuel distribution to major cities, easing shortages at urban service stations.

Nevertheless, remote regions continue to face supply gaps, largely because the country still depends on imported high‑octane gasoline and because global market volatility hampers stable imports.

On the global stage, crude oil prices have risen about 5% this week, driven by geopolitical risk and production curbs that tighten overall supply. The surge pressures Russia’s export revenues while domestic fuel prices stay elevated.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that stable fuel supplies are critical not only for Russia’s internal economy but also for broader European energy security. Continued disruptions could trigger further volatility in world oil markets.

"The swift restart of refineries signals the Kremlin’s clear intent to curb the fuel crisis," says energy analyst Dr. Elena Petrova.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Russia still dependent on imported gasoline? Yes, especially for high‑octane blends, Russia continues to import a portion of its gasoline supply.

How will the refinery restart affect global oil prices? Domestic supply improvements may ease local price pressure, but reduced Russian export capacity could keep global prices elevated.