The occupying authorities in Crimea have announced that the fuel crisis will continue for another month
The occupying authorities in Crimea have stated that the fuel shortage on the peninsula remains a serious problem, and that a swift resumption of petrol supplies is not expected.
Sergey Aksyonov, the Moscow-appointed head of Crimea, reported that the fuel crisis is continuing and that there are currently no conditions in place for a full resumption of supplies.
According to him, the authorities are continuing to take measures to address the shortage, but there will be no large volumes of fuel available on the open market in the near future. He also noted that the so-called Minister of Energy of Crimea, Vladimir Voronkin, will provide daily updates on the fuel situation.
Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russian-appointed head of Sevastopol, also confirmed that restrictions on petrol sales remain in place. He said that efforts to increase supply volumes are ongoing, but the restrictions may remain in force for about another month.
Razvozhayev also highlighted the high fuel prices at TES and ATAN petrol stations. He said that, together with Sergey Aksyonov, they are working to stabilise prices.
The free sale of fuel in Crimea, including via ration vouchers, was restricted on 21 June following further strikes on the peninsula’s oil and logistics facilities.
At the time, the occupying authorities announced that fuel would only be supplied to state bodies responsible for ensuring the peninsula’s vital functions and security.
On 26 June, a state of emergency was declared in Crimea and Sevastopol until the situation improves. This gave the occupying authorities the right to restrict freedom of movement, suspend business operations and carry out forced evacuations.
In Sevastopol, some petrol stations are periodically permitted to sell fuel freely, with a limit of 20 litres per vehicle. Filling jerrycans is prohibited.
In addition to the petrol shortage, power cuts continue across the peninsula. According to Aksyonov, power cuts are regularly reported in Crimea due to attacks on substations.
On 30 June, he stated that within a few days the authorities must find technical solutions to restore a fair distribution of electricity across the peninsula’s regions.
Aksyonov also assured that the occupying authorities plan to restore normal public transport services. He said that public transport is fully supplied with fuel.
