Key facts
- Russia has attacked over 200 Ukrainian petrol stations since April.
- Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries have caused widespread fuel shortages in Russia.
- Attacks on Ukrainian petrol stations have increased in frequency and severity.
- Russia is using more destructive Iranian-made Shahed drones in its attacks.
- Ukraine's fuel supply chain is more resilient due to road imports and a dispersed market.
Russia has escalated its attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, specifically targeting petrol stations with drones and missiles, while Ukraine continues to strike Russian oil refineries, leading to reciprocal disruptions in fuel supplies. Since April, Russia has hit over 200 Ukrainian petrol stations, with attacks becoming more frequent and employing more destructive weaponry like Iranian-made Shahed drones. These strikes have caused significant disruption, particularly in frontline regions, leading authorities to issue warnings for drivers to leave stations immediately during air raid alerts.
Simultaneously, Ukraine's campaign against Russian oil refineries has resulted in severe fuel shortages across Russia. Reports indicate that petrol is available at only a fraction of Russian filling stations. Analysts suggest Russia's targeting of Ukrainian petrol stations aims to terrorize the public and pressure the government into capitulation. However, the impact on Ukraine's overall fuel supply has been relatively small, with the National Bank of Ukraine reporting only 4% of stations damaged or destroyed. This resilience is attributed to Ukraine's reliance on road imports and a saturated market with numerous alternative stations, unlike Russia's dependence on large, vulnerable refineries and depots.
Some Ukrainian petrol station chains, like BRSM Nafta, have lost multiple locations and are implementing safety measures such as concrete shelters and reduced operating hours. Despite the risks, drivers are advised to prioritize safety over immediate refueling. The conflict's economic dimension, with both sides targeting critical fuel infrastructure, underscores the broader impact of the war beyond the front lines.