Russia faces fuel crisis as Ukraine targets refineries; Putin dismisses concern whilst NATO stands united

Russia is experiencing significant fuel shortages as Ukraine intensifies its campaign against the country’s oil refineries, forcing Moscow to restrict diesel exports. The attacks on key infrastructure have created visible supply problems, with reports of long queues at petrol stations in the capital itself. President Vladimir Putin dismissed concerns about the fuel crisis, claiming that Ukraine was attempting to sow panic that would ultimately fail. However, residents in Moscow have reported witnessing considerable delays at filling stations, with one Moscow resident named Elmar stating: “In our country, it’s impossible to say what the blame is and who is to blame.” As the world’s largest oil exporter, Russia’s restrictions on diesel exports signal the mounting impact of Ukraine’s strategic targeting of energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, NATO leaders meeting in Ankara have presented a united front against Russian aggression. Former US President Donald Trump weighed in on the Ukrainian strikes, suggesting that escalation could help bring the conflict to an end, a position that reflects the complex international debate over how to resolve the ongoing war.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.