Kremlin tells loyal media to downplay fuel shortage — and publish photos of gas stations without lines

Russia’s Presidential Administration has issued “recommendations” to media outlets on how to cover the country’s fuel shortage, a source at one state media outlet told Meduza. A second source at a separate pro-government outlet confirmed the information.

Coverage should emphasize that the country’s leadership is working to stabilize the market — that authorities are aware of the problem and are taking action.

Outlets were specifically directed to highlight that Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak convened a meeting on June 23 at which officials developed an action plan to ensure stability in the domestic fuel market, and that the Federal Antimonopoly Service was tasked with continuously monitoring prices and taking appropriate measures. “The state is addressing the challenges that have arisen — work is proceeding on a daily basis,” the guidance document states.

Media outlets were also “recommended” to publish photos and videos of functioning gas stations without lines.

In recent weeks, a gasoline crisis triggered by Ukrainian strikes on fuel infrastructure has spread across nearly all of Russia — including Moscow and regions in Siberia. In more than 20 federal subjects, authorities have officially imposed restrictions on gasoline sales, while major gas station chains have also introduced their own limits.