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Russia Reinstates Fuel Purchase Limits as Shortages Worsen

8/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Russia reinstated 50-60 litre fuel purchase limits per vehicle in at least ten regions as shortages worsened.
Ukrainian drones knocked out nearly one-third of Russia’s major oil refineries since early August.
Only 28 % of stations had gasoline or diesel by mid-August, down from 41 % a week earlier.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak met industry reps on August 14 to address supply in Orenburg, Lipetsk and other regions.

History

Historical Context

October 1973 OAPEC, the Arab arm of OPEC, declared an oil embargo that halted shipments to the United States and Europe and remained in force until March 1974, sending prices soaring and prompting gasoline rationing. The shock spurred long-term energy-saving policies, a legacy that resurfaced when Russia limited fuel sales per vehicle in August 2024 after Ukrainian drone attacks crippled many of its refineries.

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Story summary

Russia reinstated 50-60 litre fuel purchase limits per vehicle in at least ten regions as shortages worsened.
Ukrainian drones knocked out nearly one-third of Russia’s major oil refineries since early August.
Only 28 % of stations had gasoline or diesel by mid-August, down from 41 % a week earlier.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak met industry reps on August 14 to address supply in Orenburg, Lipetsk and other regions.

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