
Fuel Panic Spreads Across Central Asia as Ukraine War Disrupts Russian Oil
Ukraine’s drone strikes and broader fighting have damaged Russia’s refineries, triggering fuel shortages and long queues across Russia and Central Asia. Kazakhstan banned petrol exports, but border smuggling continues as Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan scramble for supplies and subsidies. Tajikistan is seeking new sources from Iran and relies on CNPC for exploration, while Uzbekistan builds strategic reserves and drivers increasingly use compressed natural gas; Beijing’s influence grows as electric car adoption rises in the region. The situation highlights shifting energy suppliers and regional dependence amid the war.











