Ukraine Claims Major Blow to Russian Oil Refining Capacity
Kyiv asserts that its long-range strikes have crippled over half of Russia's oil refining capabilities, potentially impacting Moscow's war efforts.
Ukraine announced Sunday that its long-range strikes have neutralized more than half of Russia's oil refining capacity, a development it claims is hindering Moscow's ability to supply its forces in the ongoing invasion. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry stated that recent attacks on refineries in cities including Moscow, Yaroslavl, Ust-Luga, Perm, Saratov, and Syzran have taken 51% of Russia’s oil refining capacity offline.
This claim could not be independently verified. Both Moscow and Kyiv have escalated their aerial assaults as the front lines, stretching approximately 1,200 kilometers (750 miles), have seen limited movement. Ukrainian forces have repeatedly targeted refineries across Russia, contributing to a widespread fuel crisis earlier this year that prompted authorities to impose restrictions on gasoline sales.
President Vladimir Putin acknowledged in a rare admission on Thursday that the strikes had impacted Russia's economy, estimating a loss of roughly 1% of its gross domestic product. Putin stated at a meeting of the Valdai Club forum that the goal of damaging Russia's economy had been "partially" achieved.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara said that assessments from Ukraine’s intelligence services, the General Staff, and the Defense Ministry indicated that the damage represents a significant blow to Russia's economy and its capacity to wage war and supply its troops. He added that "Our deep strikes continue to bring the war to Russian territory."