Russia's Putin acknowledges fuel shortages, task force set up to ensure supplies

Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged fuel shortages across the country, attributing the crisis to recent Ukrainian drone strikes on refineries. Coverage highlights reports of gas station queues and disruptions to supply chains, prompting the Kremlin to establish a task force to stabilize fuel distribution. The admissions mark a rare public acknowledgment of economic strain linked to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Major outlets including *Financial Times*, *Reuters*, *The Guardian*, and *The Kyiv Independent* are reporting the development, framing it as a significant escalation in Russia’s energy vulnerabilities. The task force’s formation suggests an urgent effort to mitigate shortages, though details on its structure or expected outcomes remain limited. Analysts note this as a departure from previous state-controlled messaging, which had downplayed such challenges.

Watch for updates on the task force’s actions and whether the shortages worsen or spread beyond key regions. Coverage may also focus on Ukraine’s strategy in targeting refineries and Russia’s potential retaliatory measures or diplomatic responses to the energy crisis.