Russian Official Says Crimea Gas Crisis ‘Temporary’ as Ukrainian Drones Pound Infrastructure

Key Points:

• Ukrainian drone strikes have severely disrupted fuel supplies in Russian-occupied Crimea, causing widespread shortages and long queues at gas stations, with about 80% of stations unable to sell standard gasoline.
• Mikhail Razvozhaev, the Moscow-appointed governor of Sevastopol, described the fuel rationing and shortages as temporary, promising deliveries and a return to normal sales by Wednesday, though public skepticism remains high.
• Ukraine's ongoing air strike campaign targets Russian fuel supply routes, including rail yards and storage facilities in Crimea and southern Russia, significantly impacting transportation and logistics, especially after damage to the Kerch Bridge.
• The fuel shortage has led to overcrowded ferries and multi-day waits for vehicles crossing between Crimea and mainland Russia, complicating travel for tourists and locals during the peak summer season.
• Black market fuel prices in Crimea have surged to over double mainland Russian prices, causing frustration among residents and visitors, with some advising tourists to bring their own fuel to avoid shortages.