Russia Faces Fuel Crisis: Putin Admits Shortages as Moscow Prepares to Import Petroleum Products.

Russia’s Fuel Situation Worsens

According to Espreso.tv: Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has described the country’s fuel situation as critical, citing rising demand for petroleum products that now forces Russia to turn to imports. Starting in July 2026, Russia plans to bring in foreign fuel supplies—a move driven by shortages affecting not only major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg but also occupied territories.

According to Novak, the fuel situation in Russia

“remains difficult for now.”

“Russia’s fuel difficulties are temporary,”

Financial Strain and Its Fallout

Russia’s budget deficit for the first four months of 2026 reached 5.9 trillion rubles, driven by a 40% increase in war-related spending starting June 18, 2026. This financial burden has also taken a toll on the country’s oil refining infrastructure. In June 2026, gasoline production fell by 25%. Additionally, from June 1 to November 30, 2026, Russia has banned aviation kerosene exports in an attempt to stabilize the domestic market.

Despite a 22% rise in pipeline oil exports from June 23, 2026, fuel shortages continue to plague Russian cities. On June 28, 2026, Vladimir Putin officially acknowledged the fuel crisis in Russia, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for action.

The fuel deficit in Russia stems from a combination of rising domestic demand, declining production, and escalating military expenditures that heavily impact the refining sector. The threat of fuel scarcity could have serious consequences not only for the economy but also for social stability, especially in regions already facing hardship. This highlights the pressing need for reforms and policy changes in energy management amid the crisis.