Putin arrests Russians for complaining about fuel shortages as fighting breaks out at petrol stations

Live updates

1. 24d ago

   Russia faces fuel crisis as petrol stations run dry

   Russia is experiencing a severe gasoline shortage, with seven in 10 stations running out of fuel. Drivers in Moscow are facing long queues to refill their vehicles. The Russian government has confirmed the country is currently relying on imported gasoline to meet demand. Tensions have escalated at petrol stations, resulting in physical fighting and the arrest of citizens who complained about the shortages.

   Why it matters

   The fuel crisis coincides with the ongoing war in Ukraine. These shortages indicate the growing domestic impact of the conflict on Russian infrastructure and resource management.

   What is confirmed

   • Seven in 10 petrol stations in Russia have run out of fuel.
   • Drivers in Moscow are facing long queues to refill vehicles.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Fighting has broken out at petrol stations.
   • The Russian government has arrested citizens for complaining about fuel shortages.
   • Russia is running on imported gasoline.

   What to watch next

   • Official government statements on gasoline import volumes
   • Reports of further arrests related to fuel protests
   • Data on the percentage of stations currently operational
   Sources used for this update (6)

   1. The Guardian — Ukraine war briefing: Russia running on imported gasoline, government confirms
   2. Euronews.com — Russia runs out of petrol at seven in 10 stations as fuel crisis worsens
   3. Reuters — Frustrated Moscow drivers face long queues to refill as fuel shortages return
   4. BBC — Rosenberg: Shortage of petrol but not patriotism as Russians feel growing impact of war
   5. The Independent — Putin arrests Russians for complaining about fuel shortages as fighting breaks out at petrol stations
   6. consent.yahoo.com — Latest news bulletin | August 21st, 2026 – Morning
   confidence 70%