Ukraine strikes key Russian refinery as pressure mounts on Moscow's fuel supplyUkraine has struck one of Russia's largest oil refineries, intensifying its campaign against the infrastructure that keeps Moscow's economy and military running. The latest drone attack has forced another major facility to halt operations, increasing pressure on Russia's domestic fuel supplies. The overnight strike targeted the Lukoil-operated refinery in Kstovo, in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region, a site regarded as one of the principal suppliers of petrol and diesel to the Moscow area. Major Refinery Forced Offline Ukraine's General Staff said the attack triggered a fire and damaged a primary crude oil processing unit responsible for roughly a quarter of the refinery's capacity. Russian officials said around 30 drones were involved and described the damage as "non-critical", but the refinery has reportedly suspended oil processing. The Kstovo plant ranks among Russia's ten largest refineries, producing around five million tonnes each of petrol and diesel annually. Any prolonged disruption is likely to place further strain on domestic fuel distribution. Moscow's Supply Network Under Pressure The strike adds to mounting disruption across the refineries supplying Russia's capital. The Ryazan refinery has reportedly remained offline since a Ukrainian attack in May, while the Moscow refinery at Kapotnya halted processing after separate strikes in June. That leaves the Yaroslavl refinery as one of the few major facilities still operating, although it has also faced repeated drone attacks. Analysts say Russia may increasingly rely on fuel imports from Belarus, a more expensive option that could drive up prices. Economic Costs Continue to Rise Ukraine has steadily expanded its long-range drone campaign, targeting oil depots, refineries and other strategic energy assets deep inside Russian territory. The strategy aims to weaken Russia's logistics, disrupt military supply chains and raise the economic cost of the war. Reports of rising fuel prices and local shortages have fuelled concerns about growing pressure on Russia's energy sector. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously acknowledged fuel supply difficulties, while officials continue to insist the country's overall energy system remains stable despite repeated Ukrainian strikes. The latest attack underscores Ukraine's determination to keep hitting critical infrastructure far behind the front line, turning Russia's energy network into an increasingly important battlefield in the wider war. Ukraine targets the last two refineries supplying fuel to Moscow - media
