Across Moscow and other parts of Russia, long lines have formed at petrol stations due to a shortage triggered by ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes on oil refineries, reports BBC. Svyatoslav, one of the many drivers waiting in line, says he is optimistic fuel will arrive soon, though he can’t afford to search elsewhere due to limited reserves in his tank. Russian officials have cited “unscheduled repairs at oil refineries” as the cause, but the crisis appears to be worsening.

Escalating Fuel Shortage

This week’s fuel queues are longer than those seen earlier this summer, when Ukraine first targeted oil facilities; the “second wave of the fuel crisis is building,” according to broadsheet Nezavisimaya Gazeta. One Moscow petrol station saw 80 vehicles waiting in line, and drivers are often forced to wait for hours, sometimes overnight, for a chance to fill up. Elizaveta, a driver queuing for fuel, described how she reached the front of the line only to be turned away and told the station would reopen at 2am.

Patriotic Messaging Amid Daily Struggles

Despite the logistical challenges, signs of patriotism remain visible in public spaces; Driving through Moscow, one sees giant billboards promoting Russian Flag Day, a contrast to the long lines at petrol stations. Lyubov, another driver waiting for fuel, brought her pet dog Agatha to pass the time, while she admitted that many people see the country as being in a difficult situation, but no official statements have yet addressed the issue directly.

Public Reaction and Concern

Lyubov, who had to drive from the provinces into Moscow, said she encountered numerous empty petrol stations along the way; her experience reflects a growing trend of drivers being forced to travel farther to find available fuel. With no immediate solution in sight, patience is wearing thin, and some drivers are even altering their routines, Elizaveta made a late-night attempt to get fuel, only to be turned away.

The crisis highlights the growing impact of the war on everyday Russian life — While the government has not publicly acknowledged the severity of the situation, the queues and delays suggest a significant disruption in the fuel supply chain. As the situation evolves, it remains unclear how long the shortages will persist or whether alternative solutions will emerge.