Moscow fuel stations cap petrol purchases as shortages persist

Fuel stations across Moscow have reintroduced restrictions on gasoline purchases, with major Russian oil companies capping how much motorists can buy at a time. The move comes as shortages that first emerged in May have spread to most regions by July, according to witnesses and fuel suppliers.

Ukraine has targeted Russian oil refineries in an effort to weaken Moscow's war effort and cut into its energy revenues. In response, Russian authorities have banned exports of gasoline and diesel, relaxed fuel quality standards, and started importing petroleum products to boost domestic supply.

Long queues have been reported at some filling stations in Moscow and the surrounding region. Gazprom Neft's automated stations are limiting customers to 40 litres of gasoline or diesel, while its other outlets cap petrol at 60 litres per vehicle, with diesel sales unrestricted.

Rosneft, Russia's largest oil producer, has set a 30-litre limit on gasoline per vehicle at all its stations nationwide, while diesel remains unrestricted. The company has also warned customers to expect longer waiting times due to heightened demand.

Lukoil has introduced restrictions in Moscow and the surrounding region, citing elevated demand, unscheduled refinery maintenance, and the need to ensure stable operations at its stations, though it did not disclose specific limits. Tatneft's customer hotline said its stations are capping gasoline at 50 litres per vehicle.