Rosenberg: Shortage of petrol but not patriotism as Russians feel growing impact of war
Key Points:
- Moscow and other parts of Russia are experiencing severe petrol shortages due to unscheduled repairs at oil refineries caused by Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil facilities, leading to long queues at petrol stations.
- The Russian government has responded by importing petrol and temporarily authorizing the production of lower-grade Euro 2 petrol, despite warnings about its potential harm to modern car engines.
- President Putin acknowledges the damage from attacks on industrial infrastructure but downplays their impact, contrasting with rising public anxiety and skepticism about the government's optimistic messaging.
- The fuel crisis is part of broader disruptions caused by the war, including attacks on distribution centers, while patriotic events continue in Moscow, reflecting a mix of national pride and public unease.
- Many Russians express feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about the future, with a sense of powerlessness to influence events, focusing instead on psychological resilience amid ongoing challenges.