Ukraine Destroys Over 20% of Russian Refining Capacity Amid Stalled Negotiations

Ukrainians, supported by European allies, are actively taking matters into their own hands by targeting Russia's oil infrastructure, a strategy that has reportedly destroyed over a fifth of Russia's refining capacity. This aggressive approach comes as negotiations for peace have stalled and former President Donald Trump's policies regarding the conflict continue to shift, as highlighted by Anne Applebaum in a recent article for The Atlantic. The ongoing conflict sees Ukraine intensifying its domestic drone production to inflict significant economic damage on Russia.

According to Applebaum's analysis, "Negotiations have stalled. Trump keeps changing his policies. Ukrainians, backed by Europeans, are taking matters into their own hands." This involves a concerted campaign to strike deep inside Russia, focusing on refineries, pipelines, and other economic assets. Since August, 16 of 38 Russian refineries have been hit, some multiple times, leading to Russian oil exports reaching their lowest point since the war began.

The Ukrainian strategy is driven by the belief that financial pressure is Russia's most vulnerable point. "It is painful for them to lose money," a Ukrainian officer stated, emphasizing that oil and oil products constitute the majority of Russia’s state income. The severe fuel shortages across Russia, including in Moscow and St. Petersburg suburbs, underscore the effectiveness of these strikes, prompting the regime to ban the export of refined oil products.

European nations are significantly bolstering Ukraine's self-reliance in this effort. Germany has committed $10.5 billion in support, with a substantial portion earmarked for drone development, while Sweden has pledged $7.4 billion. The European Union is also investing $6 billion in a "Drone Alliance" to enhance production and defense capabilities, further empowering Ukraine's indigenous military industry. This collective backing allows Ukraine to pursue its own solutions in the absence of a clear, consistent American policy.