Russia is experiencing an unprecedented refinery crisis, with 38% of its refining capacity offline, primarily due to Ukrainian drone strikes that have targeted over 20 plants since August, as reported by Russian media on October 1st, 2025. This has led to a 1 million ton drop in gasoline output in September, creating a 20% domestic shortage, with repairs potentially taking months due to sanctions blocking access to essential Western equipment and technology. Simultaneously, air raid alerts were issued in Northwestern Ukraine on October 1st, 2025, following the launch of Russian one-way attack drones from Belarus. The extent of the crisis is highlighted by the fact that four major refineries, including Kinef and Rosneft's Ryazan, ceased operations in September. Russian oil companies are reportedly unable to significantly alleviate the situation, according to an economist cited by EP via RBC. The lack of Western parts and the inadequacy of Chinese replacements further complicate repair efforts, which may extend for months. This refinery crisis exacerbates an ongoing fuel shortage in Russia, which has led to extensive queues on major highways like the M-12 Kazan-Moscow, as previously reported. The Ukrainian drone attacks have previously shut down 38% of Russia's oil refinery capacity, contributing to significant gasoline shortages and potential multi-month repair times due to sanctions. Russian media also reported 16 Shahmed drones were launched from Chernihiv towards the Konotop, Sumy Region. In related developments, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remains at risk due to a persistent blackout, with backup diesel generators having only 10 days of fuel remaining, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on October 1st, 2025. Ukraine is also facing funding challenges for the mass production of its own missiles, including a ballistic missile project. Meanwhile, Poland has detained a Ukrainian man on suspicion of involvement in the Nord Stream pipeline explosion.
