Ukrainian Drone Strikes Cause Widespread Fuel Shortages Across Russia

Ukraine has significantly escalated its drone campaign against Russian oil infrastructure, striking refineries and fuel depots across a wide geographic area, including major targets like Krasnodar, Syzran, Ryazan, Volgograd, and Saratov. These attacks have disabled up to 20% of Russia's refining capacity, reducing gasoline output by over 1 million barrels per day and causing widespread fuel shortages, rationing, and record price increases throughout Russia. Ukrainian commanders, including Robert 'Madyar' Brovdi, have highlighted the use of specialized units and advanced unmanned systems to carry out these precise and sustained strikes, which have overwhelmed Russian air defenses. The disruption has not only impacted civilian fuel availability but also strained Russia's military logistics and budget, contributing to a $61.4 billion deficit. Despite these setbacks, Russia is attempting to mitigate the impact by securing new energy partnerships, such as the 'Power of Siberia 2' gas pipeline deal with China. Analysts and European officials suggest that this combined pressure from drone strikes and sanctions could compel Russia to reconsider its position in the ongoing conflict.