Ukrainian-launched drones have been targeting energy infrastructure within Russian territory in recent months, causing disruptions to Moscow’s war machine and supplies of its main export. These attacks, which have intensified over time, do not always have direct claims of responsibility from Kyiv. The most recent strikes occurred overnight on a Friday, resulting in at least three electrical substations and a fuel storage base catching fire. Video footage posted on social media shows the aftermath of the attacks, but the Ukrainian Defense Ministry has not commented on the incidents as of yet.
Images and reports indicate that the attacks targeted facilities belonging to energy giant Lukoil in regions neighboring Ukraine, such as Smolensk and Bryansk. Russian air defenses claim to have shot down 50 Ukrainian drones over eight regions, resulting in two casualties in the Belgorod region. The attack is believed to have been a joint operation involving the Security Service of Ukraine, Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, and the Special Operations Forces. Around 50 drones were reported to have attacked various facilities across Russia, including 12 oil refineries, with the latest attack taking place in Smolensk Oblast.
Despite warnings from Washington about the risks of targeting Russian energy sites, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Kyiv can use retaliatory strikes on oil refineries. Markus Korhonen, a senior associate at the consultancy S-RM, noted that by targeting refineries instead of crude oil production or export facilities, the global impacts are less drastic. This intentional approach aims to disrupt Russian war capabilities while minimizing significant impacts on crude oil exports. The attacks on refineries have been limiting refined petroleum product exports, but not crude oil exports from Russia, according to Korhonen.
The attacks on Russian energy infrastructure by Ukrainian drones pose a significant challenge to Moscow’s ability to sustain its war efforts and maintain its main export supply. The attacks have been ongoing over a period of time, with recent incidents resulting in fires at multiple facilities. Russian air defenses have claimed to have shot down numerous drones and prevented casualties in some regions. The joint operation involving several Ukrainian security agencies highlights the coordination and planning behind the attacks, targeting various facilities across Russia.
The attacks on 12 Russian oil refineries, as well as other energy facilities, demonstrate Ukraine’s capabilities and reach in targeting Russian infrastructure. Despite warnings from the United States about potential repercussions, Ukrainian officials have pursued attacks on Russian energy sites as part of their strategy. By focusing on refineries rather than crude oil production facilities, Ukraine aims to disrupt Russian war capabilities while minimizing global impacts on crude oil exports. The attacks have had significant implications for Russian energy infrastructure, leading to fires and disruptions across various regions.
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, characterized by the targeting of energy infrastructure by Ukrainian drones, has escalated tensions and posed challenges for both countries. The attacks on Russian facilities have affected Moscow’s ability to sustain its war efforts and export activities, while also showcasing Ukraine’s capabilities and determination in targeting key infrastructure. The international community has been closely monitoring the situation, with concerns raised about the potential consequences of further escalations. As the conflict continues, the impact of the attacks on Russian energy sites remains a critical aspect of the region’s geopolitical dynamics and global energy markets.
