Fuel Shortages From Drone Strikes Force Russian Officials to Bike to Work.

Service Car Restrictions Imposed in Stavropol Krai

According to Espreso.tv: Authorities in Russia's Stavropol Krai have introduced strict limits on the use of government vehicles due to a severe fuel crisis. Officials are now being urged to commute by bicycle or on foot. The new measures take effect on July 14. Governor Vladimir Vladimirov has instructed government employees to adjust their work schedules in order to cut down on gasoline and diesel consumption.

Root Causes and Impact of the Fuel Crisis

The region's fuel shortages stem from repeated drone attacks targeting oil infrastructure. This has triggered a broader fuel deficit across Russia that began in late May. The situation has worsened in recent days following several fires at fuel depots. One such fire broke out in the village of Vyazniki on the night of July 13, with another occurring on the night of July 8–9.

• On June 17, Russia announced plans to import gasoline from Asian countries.
• By July 1, it had already started maritime deliveries of gasoline from India.
• Restrictions on government officials traveling outside the regional capital also begin on July 14.

'Within the city, you can get around on foot or by bicycle. I trust you will rearrange your work plans to minimize the use of gasoline and diesel fuel.' — Vladimir Vladimirov

The newly imposed restrictions on government car usage in Stavropol Krai highlight the severity of the fuel supply crisis triggered by attacks on oil infrastructure and depot fires. These steps may be part of a broader strategy to cope with the region's limited resources. The fuel situation in Stavropol Krai could also affect other parts of Russia, given the ongoing strain on the country's energy sector.