Ukraine has initiated a large-scale cross-border assault deep within Russia, targeting Moscow’s primary oil refinery and key military sites. The drone strikes early in the morning are expected to severely impact Russian President Vladimir Putin’s energy sector and disrupt essential supplies to the Russian capital.
The attack coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump at the G7 Summit in France to discuss a potential peace agreement. Following the strike on Moscow’s energy infrastructure, President Zelensky praised the operation, describing it as a retaliation against attacks on Ukrainian civilians by Russia.
The assault led to immediate restrictions on the amount of petrol available at gas stations in Moscow, with payments limited to cash and passenger car fuel purchases capped at 30 liters. The targeted oil refinery in Moscow accounts for nearly half of the city’s daily oil consumption, with a significant portion diverted to support Russian military operations in Ukraine.
In addition to the refinery attack, another oil facility in Krasnodar, southern Russia, was also hit, aiming to undermine Putin’s authority amidst growing dissatisfaction. The strike also targeted Russian military personnel at various observation centers and command posts throughout Russia, reportedly orchestrated by Ukrainian intelligence operatives.
Simultaneously, Ukrainian drone teams targeted Kremlin military positions in Donetsk, including a field artillery depot and supplies headquarters. Ukrainian forces also engaged Russian troops in the Ivanovo region, inflicting substantial losses on Putin’s military capabilities amid escalating pressure to end the prolonged conflict.
The recent operation follows a British intervention involving commandos intercepting a Russian oil vessel, highlighting international efforts to curb Russian activities. Both Putin and Zelensky engaged in discussions with President Trump, coinciding with the US leader’s 80th birthday celebrations.