Vladimir Putin admitted for the first time that Ukraine's attacks on infrastructure have caused partial fuel shortages in Russia, but he stressed that the situation is not critical. He also ordered urgent reinforcement of air defense systems and measures to maintain energy security.
On 29 June 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that Ukraine's attacks on energy infrastructure have impacted Russia, causing fuel shortages in some areas. He confirmed that the situation is not yet critical. In an interview released by the Kremlin, Putin said the infrastructure attacks, especially on energy, have clearly caused problems, stating that Russia is currently facing "some level of fuel shortages, but not a crisis."
The Russian leader said the key mission now is to strengthen air defense capabilities and ensure fuel supply, particularly in the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014 despite most of the international community not recognizing this. Speaking at a United Russia party meeting, he said the government is aware of the problems and will take all possible measures to guarantee national security, public safety, and protect territorial integrity. He affirmed that Russia will overcome these challenges, including attacks targeting domestic infrastructure.