Russia Expands Fuel Purchase Restrictions: Control Measures Now Cover Lugansk-Controlled Areas
Gas stations in Russia's Belgorod Oblast, Kursk Oblast, and the Lugansk-controlled areas have begun implementing restrictions on gasoline and diesel sales. Local governments and gas station operators stated that these measures are due to safety concerns and a sharp increase in fuel demand.
In parts of Belgorod Oblast, some Russian oil company gas stations have banned purchasing 92-octane gasoline in containers; many drivers report that certain stations no longer offer full-tank refueling services. Maxim Gusev, Minister of Economic Development of Belgorod Oblast, said the sales restrictions are intended to ensure safety throughout the fuel distribution process.
Kursk has implemented similar controls: at Rosneft-affiliated stations, individuals are limited to purchasing 20 liters of 95-octane gasoline per person, and buying 92-octane gasoline in containers is prohibited.
The Lugansk-controlled area has also been included in the purchase limits. Local authorities have set a daily single-person cap of 20 liters for 92-octane gasoline, 95-octane gasoline, and diesel. Officially, the reason cited is surging market demand; however, this round of control measures represents another step in the ongoing expansion of Russia’s fuel rationing policy along its border and in related controlled zones.
As early as late May, Crimea and Sevastopol had already implemented identical rules—limiting individual daily fuel purchases to 20 liters and abolishing the fuel coupon system. At the same time, the Russian government introduced a ban on refined oil exports, effective until the end of November. Analysts believe Russia’s tightening of fuel controls stems from frequent attacks on refining facilities and resulting supply chain disruptions.
Micro-commentary
Frequent remote strikes on refineries and fuel storage facilities in border regions and areas adjacent to Ukraine have damaged refined oil production capacity. Combined with increased wartime consumption of fuel by vehicles and military supplies along the border, domestic fuel supply-demand conditions have tightened—this is the core practical reason behind the purchase restrictions. Limiting container-based fuel purchases aims to prevent stockpiling and black-market resale of fuel.
From Crimea spreading progressively to Belgorod, Kursk, and Lugansk, and now coupled with the ban on refined oil exports, Russia is prioritizing domestic and frontline fuel supply, sacrificing overseas export revenues to stabilize its domestic fuel market.
The widespread, long-term fuel rationing reflects clear pressure on Russia’s border fuel supply. In the short term, refining capacity cannot be quickly restored, and the fuel shortage situation is likely to persist through autumn and winter.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866945364641792/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.