Russia has targeted at least 246 petrol stations across Ukraine, escalating a campaign to disrupt the country's fuel supply. This aggressive strategy follows Ukrainian drone strikes that have caused severe fuel shortages within Russia itself.
The attacks, primarily using drones, have become more frequent since April. Two petrol stations in Kharkiv were hit recently, injuring two people. Another attack near Kryvyi Rih last week killed three individuals. These strikes aim to create panic and pressure the Ukrainian government.
This situation unfolds against a backdrop of significant economic disruption caused by the ongoing conflict. Ukraine's ability to maintain fuel access is crucial for its economy and military operations. The National Bank of Ukraine reported that only 4% of the country's filling stations have been damaged or destroyed, indicating a limited overall market impact. This resilience contrasts sharply with Russia's experience, where a popular newspaper, Izvestia, reported petrol available at only 28% of stations.
Oleksandr Sirenko, an analyst with Ukrainian energy think-tank Nafto Rynok, confirmed the scale of the attacks. The Centre for Information Resilience, an open-source investigation group, verified 114 Russian strikes on filling stations in July alone. This number represents a significant increase from 66 attacks recorded the previous month. Sirenko also noted Russia's shift from smaller remote-controlled drones to more destructive Iranian-made Shahed drones, which cost between $20,000 and $50,000 each.
The implications for Ukraine's economy and civilian life are substantial. Key roads, such as the one linking Kharkiv and Dnipro, have seen all petrol stations destroyed in some sections. Local authorities in places like Opishnya and Trostyanets have resorted to stocking fuel in multiple locations or dispensing it directly from mobile road tankers. Police have issued guidance urging motorists to leave petrol stations during air raid alerts, prioritizing safety over immediate refueling. Businesses like BRSM Nafta, which has lost eight petrol stations, are building concrete shelters and anti-drone nets to protect customers and staff. They have also shortened working hours and reduced staff presence.
Despite these challenges, Ukraine's fuel market has shown remarkable adaptability. Unlike Russia, Ukraine does not rely on large, vulnerable refineries. Instead, it imports fuel by road using tanker trucks, creating a decentralized and more resilient supply chain. The market is also saturated with numerous petrol stations, offering alternatives if one is targeted. Increased sales in regions further from the front line have helped offset losses from destroyed stations. This strategic flexibility has prevented widespread panic buying or significant queues, even as attacks continue. The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran is currently having a larger impact on local fuel prices than these direct attacks.