Crimea fuel stations empty after Ukrainian drone attacks on supply lines

Motorists are facing long queues at gas stations, and authorities have implemented rationing, restricting sales to 20 liters per vehicle owner per week via prepaid coupons. This crisis threatens to disrupt tourism in the region, which relies heavily on summer vacations. The Kremlin has publicly acknowledged the severity of the situation and pledged swift action.

Ukraine's ability to inflict damage on Russian infrastructure, including previous attacks on the Kerch Bridge and munitions depots, is highlighted by these successes. The recent strikes on the land corridor from Russia to Crimea, including repeated hits on the Chonhar Bridge, underscore Ukraine's strategy to cripple Russian logistics and military movements. The Institute for the Study of War noted the combined effect of long-range strikes reducing production capacity and mid-range strikes hindering transportation of available fuel.

Crimea, a strategically important peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014, has been a focal point of Ukrainian attacks since the full-scale invasion began. Ukraine has previously targeted military assets, including warships and airfields, and the Kerch Bridge, aiming to degrade Russia's hold on the territory and its supply routes.