Novak acknowledged the price gap between network and independent gas stations.

      Vice Prime Minister Alexander Novak, speaking at the plenary session of the Financial Congress of the Bank of Russia, stated that large vertically integrated oil companies are keeping gasoline prices at their gas stations within the limits of inflation. At the same time, he noted the existence of a price gap at independent gas stations, which, in his opinion, should be leveled after the stabilization of the situation in the fuel market, reports the newspaper "Kommersant."

      Novak explained that the domestic market is generally supplied with gasoline and diesel fuel, and local disruptions at certain gas stations are caused by supply failures from refineries to oil depots. He emphasized that these problems are being promptly addressed, and previously accumulated reserves are being used to cover the temporary deficit. It should be noted that at the end of May, restrictions on fuel sales were introduced in more than 30 regions, and in the Moscow region, prices rose by more than 3 rubles per liter in mid-June.

      President Vladimir Putin, at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, reported that Russia has only 10% of oil refineries left to repair that were damaged as a result of strikes by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The head of state also noted that the protection system for facilities has been strengthened: as an example, he cited a repelled nighttime attack on three refineries, reports the newspaper "Kommersant."

      Separately, Putin commented on the signed decree regarding the temporary transfer of infrastructure facilities to state management. The president emphasized that this is not about nationalization, but rather a stimulating measure for owners who do not ensure an adequate level of security. He explained his position with the saying, "Until the thunder strikes, the man does not cross himself."

      The topic of protecting oil facilities was further elaborated by Vice Prime Minister Novak. He stated that the costs of ensuring the company's security will be borne independently, and these expenses will not affect retail fuel prices. Novak clarified that there is passive protection—engineering structures that prevent attacks on the main equipment—and active protection. The Ministry of Energy has developed corresponding recommendations for companies, and they are now being implemented taking into account the changed threat model, reports the publication "Vedomosti." The vice prime minister did not disclose the details of the protection system, explaining that this information is sensitive.