Fuel shortages reported in Crimea following Ukrainian drone strikes

Fuel stations across the Russian-held Crimean peninsula are experiencing significant shortages as of Thursday. Reuters witnesses report long queues and rationing in cities including Sevastopol and Yevpatoriya, with authorities limiting purchases to 20 litres per person via a QR-code system. Mikhail Razvozhaev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, confirmed that fuel distribution plans have been delayed due to the inability of trucks to reach the city. These supply chain disruptions follow intensified Ukrainian drone strikes on critical transport routes across Russian-occupied southern Ukraine and an earlier attack on an oil terminal in Feodosia in April. While some food shortages, specifically sugar and buckwheat, were observed briefly in local shops, reports indicate that shelves have since been restocked. Local authorities continue to urge motorists to verify fuel availability before traveling to stations. Meanwhile, regional officials reported that 33 Ukrainian drones were downed overnight, causing light damage. Russia seized control of Crimea in 2014, and current supply routes rely heavily on road and rail connections through territories occupied since 2022.