Ukraine has initiated a significant cross-border offensive into Russia, targeting Moscow’s largest oil refinery and key military installations in one of its most extensive attacks to date.
The drone strikes, carried out in the early hours, are expected to severely impact Russia’s energy sector and disrupt essential supplies in the capital city. This operation coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump at the G7 Summit in France to discuss peace negotiations.
Following the assault on Moscow’s energy infrastructure, President Zelensky praised the mission as a response to previous Russian aggression against Ukrainian civilians, emphasizing the need to compel Russia to cease hostilities. The attack led to immediate restrictions on petrol purchases in Moscow, with payments limited to cash transactions and a cap of 30 liters per vehicle.
The targeted oil refinery in Moscow is a crucial supplier, accounting for nearly half of the city’s daily oil consumption, with a significant portion diverted to support Russian military operations in Ukraine. Another oil facility in Krasnodar was also struck, aiming to undermine Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose popularity is waning.
The offensive also targeted Russian troops stationed at observation posts and command centers across the country, orchestrated by Ukrainian intelligence operatives. Concurrently, Ukrainian drone teams attacked Russian military positions in Donetsk, along with artillery depots and supply headquarters in Kremenivka and a drone facility in Mariupol.
Ukrainian forces further engaged a substantial concentration of Russian troops in the Ivanovo region of Bryansk, intensifying pressure on Putin’s ability to sustain the conflict financially. This operation follows recent actions, including a British seizure of a Russian oil vessel in the Channel, and discussions between Putin, Zelensky, and Trump amid escalating tensions.
The latest offensive underscores Ukraine’s determination to challenge Russian aggression and bring an end to the prolonged conflict, amplifying calls for a resolution to the crisis.