Economist Gabudina assessed the risks for motorists after attacks on major oil refineries.

      July 9, 2026 13:25 Society Drone attacks on the largest oil refineries across the country are causing concern among drivers: will there be fuel shortages and will prices at gas stations skyrocket? Candidate of Economic Sciences Alena Gabudina told "MegaTyumen" how this situation may affect the fuel market. According to the expert, such attacks lead to temporary difficulties in fuel transportation, but do not result in its complete disappearance.

      "A global gasoline shortage is not to be expected right now. Yes, some production capacities may be temporarily taken offline, and it will take time to restore and restructure supplies. However, similar situations have occurred before, so regions and federal structures have established response mechanisms. Logistics chains are being restructured to ensure fuel supplies. There is enough fuel in the country," emphasized Alena Gabudina.

      The economist noted that possible problems may arise only in certain locations and will be temporary while delivery routes are adjusted. The economist believes that the likelihood of a sharp spike in gasoline prices is currently low. According to her, fuel prices are strictly controlled by the government, so a repeat of the situation where private gas stations sharply and unjustifiably raised prices significantly above the average level is not expected.

      Why are oil refineries being attacked: an economist's view Alena Gabudina believes that strikes on oil refineries are aimed not only at causing economic damage but also at creating a psychological effect. According to her, one of the main goals of such attacks is to provoke a hysterical rush.

      "This is primarily an attempt to induce panic among people. So that motorists rush to gas stations, buy gasoline in jerrycans, write alarming posts, thereby intensifying negative sentiments," explained the expert.

      Gabudina noted that such attacks can indeed disrupt logistics, temporarily complicate supplies, and create additional pressure on the economy. However, in her opinion, the social aspect is equally important: when people start to panic, the demand for fuel sharply increases, queues appear, and certain market participants may try to take advantage of the situation. "Even if there is objectively enough fuel, panic itself can create local problems," added the expert.

      Gabudina emphasized that the oil and gas industry remains key to the Russian economy, so attacks on such facilities are perceived particularly painfully. They can affect not only fuel supplies but also the sentiments of businesses, motorists, and ordinary citizens. At the same time, the expert urged not to succumb to panic. According to her, there is enough fuel in the country, and the main task of the authorities now is to restructure logistics chains and prevent a sharp rise in prices. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required. This resource may contain materials 18+