Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that since the beginning of the year, Ukrainian military operations have successfully struck 15 Russian oil refineries. This development marks a significant step in Ukraine’s strategy to undermine Russia’s energy capabilities.
Zelensky stated, “The plan for our long-range sanctions is being executed step by step. From January to May this year, our forces have managed to hit 15 Russian oil refineries. This is substantial. There are already Russian bans on the export of aviation fuel and gasoline from their territory, and they are considering a ban on diesel exports. For a country that was recently referred to as a ‘gas station,’ losing even this is a significant story, a considerable loss.”
According to Zelensky, nearly 40% of Russia’s primary oil processing capacity has been rendered inoperative as of May. This disruption is part of a broader effort to weaken Russia’s military potential and compel a cessation of its aggressive actions against Ukraine.
A report from Bloomberg on June 1 indicated that Ukrainian drones attacked Russian oil infrastructure at least 30 times in May alone, marking the highest number of strikes in any month since the onset of the conflict. The report noted that oil processing in Russia has dropped to its lowest level in 16 years due to these attacks.
Since the full-scale invasion by Russia, various targets within Russia and in occupied territories of Ukraine have been subjected to airstrikes. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has confirmed most of these attacks, asserting that the Ukrainian defense forces are systematically implementing measures aimed at reducing the combat potential of Russian occupying forces and pressuring Russia to end its armed aggression against Ukraine.
Ukrainian military operations have targeted Russian oil refineries, significantly impacting Russia's energy sector and military capabilities. President Zelensky reported that nearly 40% of Russia's oil processing capacity has been compromised, with a record number of drone strikes occurring in May 2023.