FUEL SHORTAGES SPREAD ACROSS RUSSIA AS UKRAINIAN STRIKES TARGET ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE. (PHOTO).

 Fuel shortages spread across Russia as Ukrainian strikes target energy infrastructure

Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy and logistics infrastructure are contributing to fuel shortages across parts of Russia, with officials acknowledging supply challenges as the conflict continues.

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently confirmed that the country is experiencing gas shortages, while reports indicate that fuel restrictions are now in place in dozens of Russian regions following repeated strikes on refineries and fuel facilities.

According to reports, Ukraine has intensified attacks on oil refineries, fuel logistics sites, military factories and other infrastructure as part of its campaign against Russian military supply chains. 

President Volodymyr Zelensky recently said he had approved a 40-day drone campaign aimed at increasing pressure on Russia.

The reported disruptions have led to long queues at some petrol stations, with videos circulating online showing confrontations among motorists waiting to buy fuel. 

One video from Moscow showed an argument between two women in a queue, while another from Serov reportedly showed a woman with a bloodied nose following an altercation.

Reports indicate that fuel restrictions are currently being enforced in 56 Russian regions.

The developments come amid continued speculation over Ukraine's future military objectives, including the Crimean Bridge, which has previously been targeted in attacks. Crimea remains under Russian control after its 2014 annexation, which is internationally disputed.

Some analysts have suggested that any significant threat to Crimea could increase pressure on the Kremlin, though there is no official indication that Russia plans to change its current military strategy. Reports have also claimed that some hardline figures in Russia are advocating a more aggressive response, including discussions around nuclear weapons, but there has been no public confirmation from the Kremlin that such action is under consideration.

The war, now in its fifth year, continues with both sides targeting military and strategic infrastructure as fighting persists.