Vladimir Putin campaigns amid Russian fuel crisis and drone attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has begun a campaign tour across the country ahead of parliamentary elections on September 20, seeking to bolster approval ratings amid an economic crisis. During a visit to Krasnoyarsk, fuel prices briefly dropped by 24 rubles, though reports indicate prices returned to previous levels after his departure.

The country faces significant economic and security challenges. A fuel crisis, triggered by drone attacks on refineries in May, has led the government to impose export bans on gasoline and diesel. Additionally, recent drone strikes targeting Moscow and industrial sites have caused injuries and property damage, including hits on a Wildberries warehouse. In Crimea, attacks have resulted in power outages, further complicating the supply situation.