Petrol Shortages Hit Moscow Amid Rising Tensions from Ongoing Conflict

As queues stretch for hours outside petrol stations in Moscow, residents are increasingly feeling the squeeze of fuel shortages exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Svyatoslav, waiting in his car for over two hours, expresses a glimmer of hope that petrol will arrive soon, despite the station's sign indicating otherwise.

Across the city, the mood is tense. Elizaveta recounts her late-night quest for fuel, only to find the station closed when she finally reached the front of the line. Meanwhile, Lyubov drives in from the provinces, noting that every station she passed was out of fuel. "Everyone connects this to the difficult situation in the country," she says, petting her dog Agatha in the long wait.

This wave of fuel shortages has been linked to ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes that target Russian oil facilities, leading to unscheduled repairs and logistics issues. Nezavisimaya Gazeta has referred to this as a "second wave" of the fuel crisis, with officials struggling to maintain refining capabilities. In response, the government has temporarily authorized the production and sale of lower-grade petrol, Euro 2, which is faster to produce but has significant downsides for vehicle maintenance.

Despite the disruptions, the Kremlin remains steadfast in its commitment to the so-called "special military operation" in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged the damage caused by these strikes but maintains that there are no critical consequences, a sentiment that many citizens find hard to reconcile with their reality. Andrei Kolesnikov, a columnist for Novaya Gazeta, suggests a disconnect between the government's reassurances and the rising anxiety among the populace.

Polling indicates that public anxiety is indeed on the rise, with many Russians feeling a pervasive sense of unease about their future. "This permanent feeling of anxiety is with everyone right now," Kolesnikov observes, emphasizing the lack of a clear vision from the regime for the months and years ahead.

In stark contrast to the fuel crisis, Moscow is also witnessing a display of patriotism coinciding with Russian Flag Day. Events are held throughout the city, featuring speeches affirming national pride amidst the hardships. Volunteers distribute flags while military hardware is showcased, creating an atmosphere of unity through adversity. "Difficulties unite us," states pensioner Tatyana, highlighting a sentiment that resonates among many.

Yet, the shadow of the war looms large in everyday conversations. Residents express concerns about missile strikes, with one woman noting the unsettling experience of hearing explosions nearby. For many, the focus is on maintaining a strong psychological state as they navigate these challenging times, adapting to the new normal of uncertainty.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk