In early June, Ukrainian special forces launched a series of precision strikes on key fuel depots and pipelines in Russian‑occupied Crimea, severely limiting gasoline and diesel availability across the peninsula. The attacks hit the main oil depot in Sevastopol, a diesel storage complex in Kerch, and underground tanks feeding power plants, prompting long queues at the few remaining stations and forcing residents to ration fuel for heating and transport .

Sevastopol Oil Depot Cratered, Cutting 40% of Local Supply

Satellite images released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence show a large carter at the Sevastopol oil depot, where the explosion destroyed a significant portion of stored fuel. independent analysts cited in the report confirm that the depot’s output has dropped by roughly 40%,a figure that aligns with the sudden scarcity reported by Crimean motorists. According to the source, the loss of this hub has forced trucks to travel longer routes to the mainland, increasing delivery times and costs.

Kerch Diesel Complex Hit, Small Businesses Forced to Shut

The diesel storage complex in Kerch, another primary target, suffered a direct hit that rendered several tanks inoperable. Local officials in Crimea told the press that the shortage has already led to the teemporary closure of at least twelve small enterprises that rely on diesel generators for power.. the regional governor, appointed by Moscow, described the situation as a "humanitarian crisis" and appealed for emergency assistance, though Russian authorities have denied any plan to increase supplies.

UN Warns of Aid Delivery Disruptions as Fuel Shortage Deepens

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) issued a statement expressing concern that prolonged fuel scarcity could impede the transport of medicines and food to remote villages. As the report notes, road‑dependent aid convoys may face delays or be forced to reroute, heightening the risk of civilian suffering. The UN call for safe corridors underscores the broader humanitarian stakes beyond the immediate economic impact.

Russia’s Contingency Plan: Redirecting Mainland Fuel Amid Uncertainty

Analysts in Moscow claim that Russia is prepared to divert fuel shipments from mainland ports to Crimea to offset the shortfall, but logistical hurdles and the threat of further Ukrainian strikes make the plan precarious. The source indicates that even if additional shipments arrive , the damaged underground network could still bottleneck distribution, leaving many stations empty.

What Remains Unclear: Scope of Future Ukrainian Operations

Ukrainian officials have hinted at more strikes on pipelines linking Crimea to the Russian mainland in the coming weeks, yet details on timing and targets remain vague. Additionally, Moscow’s promised retaliatory measures against Ukrainian infrastructure have not been specified, leaving both sides in a tense standoff. As the fuel crisis evolves, the exact timeline for restoring normal supplies remains unknown.