Ukraine steps up strikes on occupied territories, intensifying Russia's fuel crisis

Ukraine has intensified its strikes on Russian energy infrastructure and logistical supply lines in recent months, significantly disrupting Russia's fuel capabilities across occupied territories and within its own southern regions. These attacks, predominantly carried out by drones, have targeted oil refineries, fuel depots, and crucial transport routes, leading to notable damage to Russia's refining capacity.

The sustained campaign has resulted in acknowledged "temporary difficulties" with fuel supplies in southern Russia, including the illegally annexed Crimea, where gasoline shortages, rationing, and long queues have become prevalent. Analysts note that approximately one-quarter of Russia's oil-refining capacity was put out of operation in May 2026, impacting over 30% of gasoline and 25% of diesel production, thereby impeding Moscow's ability to provision both military and civilian needs. Russia has reportedly imposed fuel export restrictions and redirected crude to domestic refineries to mitigate the crisis.

Ukrainian forces are also actively targeting military logistics, including fuel trucks and cargo ships, to further complicate Russia's resupply efforts in occupied areas. President Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainian military operations now reach Russian logistics throughout almost the entire depth of temporarily occupied territories, limiting safe passage for Russian forces.