Fuel shortages hit Russia’s Murmansk and Tver regions after Ukrainian drone strikes

Fuel shortages have disrupted Russia’s Murmansk and Tver regions following a wave of Ukrainian drone attacks on the country’s oil infrastructure, according to reports by the BBC’s Russian service and local Russian media.

In Murmansk’s Alakurtti—a military garrison town near Finland’s border—local media reported the closure of the sole gas station for two days due to fuel shortages. Residents expressed concern over the lack of alternatives, with the nearest fuel available 120 kilometers away in Kantalahden. While small additional supplies were later promised, one station owner told Hibiny news site they had received no fuel deliveries for a week.

The shortages primarily affect 92- and 95-octane gasoline, with prices surging by 10 rubles per liter daily. As of this week, 92-octane costs around 87 rubles (€0.90) per liter, while 95-octane exceeds 92 rubles (€1.05). Average monthly wages in Murmansk—roughly €1,500—are nearly 30% higher than Russia’s national average, though fuel costs now consume a larger share of incomes.

Russian state media also cited claims that the shortages stem from state oil firm Rosneft transferring stations to private operators, though no evidence was provided. Ukraine’s drone campaign has increasingly targeted refineries and depots, triggering localized fuel crises across Russia in recent months.