Putin shrugs off Russia’s fuel crisis

Russian leader says shortages are temporary, rejects ceasefire despite pressure from Ukrainian attacks

Moscow: President Vladimir Putin has dismissed fuel shortages triggered by repeated Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil facilities, insisting the disruption is “not critical” and vowing to press ahead with the war.

Chairing a government meeting, Putin acknowledged Russia was facing a “difficult period” but described the shortages as temporary. He promised faster repairs to damaged energy infrastructure, said Russia could import petrol if required, and pledged increased production of air defence systems to counter further attacks.

Putin rejected ceasefire proposals backed by Ukraine and its Western allies, arguing that any truce would allow Ukrainian forces to regroup. He reiterated that Russia would continue fighting until its objectives were achieved.

The remarks came after Russia launched an overnight barrage on Kyiv that killed at least 30 people. Putin accused Ukraine of targeting Russian energy facilities to undermine public support for the war but maintained the attacks would not alter Moscow’'s military campaign.

—AP