On 1 November, long queues formed at petrol stations in Kstovo, Russia, and the neighbouring city of Nizhny Novgorod, following a night-time drone attack on the Lukoil-Nizhegorodnefteorgsintez oil refinery. Drivers flocked to fill up their tanks, fearing supply disruptions following a massive fire at one of Russia’s largest oil refineries.
- Following the attack on the Kstovo oil refinery, long queues formed at petrol stations.
- At some petrol stations, there are 30–40 cars queuing.
- Drivers are concerned about potential disruptions to petrol supplies.
- Fuel is still available at most petrol stations.
Dozens of cars were queuing at petrol stations
According to local residents, queues of 30–40 cars have formed at some petrol stations in Kstovo and Nizhny Novgorod. Some drivers are arriving not only with empty tanks but also with jerry cans, trying to stock up on fuel.
The heaviest traffic congestion is being observed near Lukoil petrol stations, particularly on the M7 motorway heading towards Moscow. Queues have also been reported on Heroes« Avenue and near the »Ganza« shopping centre in Nizhny Novgorod.
The local publication «In City N» has confirmed a massive influx of motorists. However, according to its reports, petrol is still available at most petrol stations. Consequently, the queues have arisen primarily due to fears of a possible shortage.
A night-time attack caused a major fire at the oil refinery
On the night of 1 November, drones attacked Kstovo Oil Refinery Lukoil. Following a series of explosions at the plant, a major fire broke out and thick plumes of black smoke rose above the industrial area.
Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin confirmed that an industrial plant had sustained significant damage, but did not specify its name.
The Kstovo Oil Refinery is one of the largest in Russia. Its design capacity is around 17 million tonnes of crude oil per year. The refinery produces petrol, diesel and aviation fuel.
This latest attack is the latest in a series for the company, which had already been hit in 2026. In particular, following the attack on 26 August, the plant temporarily suspended operations due to damage to its equipment.
