Ukraine's Crimea, occupied by Russia, is running out of fuel. Since 24 September, it has disappeared from gas stations in the peninsula, and not even the most expensive A100 grade is available, KrimRealii reports.
Regular Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries have slashed production and sent prices soaring. Shortages are now reported in more than ten Russian regions, including Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov, and Ryazan, as well as occupied Crimea.
Fuel collapse is devastating
According to a local human rights defender and LiberateCrimea activist, the peninsula is facing a fuel collapse.
“What Crimeans feared has happened. There is no gasoline at gas stations, many are closing down to avoid paying staff salaries,” he says.
He explains that the crisis is hurting both ordinary residents and businesses. Private companies are suffering major losses as transport capabilities break down.
“There are far fewer cars on the roads. Minibuses are overcrowded,” he notes.
Despite the fuel collapse, Russia shows no willingness to end the war. Analysts have warned that the Kremlin is ready to pay any price, including the well-being of its own citizens, to keep killing Ukrainians.
To stop Moscow, Ukraine needs billions of dollars and advanced weapons for the grinding war. Next year, Kyiv faces a gap of about $60 billion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently stated.
Transport and taxis are paralyzed
The activist added that the lack of fuel is worsening Crimea’s transport situation daily.
Taxis are hard to find, and drivers also lack gasoline. Problems for Crimeans are mounting quickly, paralyzing daily life and business operations.
