Ukraine must continue to target Russian oil refineries in order to weaken the aggressor’s economy.

This year, Ukraine has struck at least 20 oil facilities in Russia with its drones. According to analysts, as of the end of March these strikes have reduced the production of light petroleum products by at least 1.7 million tons per month, worth approximately $1.5B.

As of May, drone strikes had disabled 14% of Russia’s oil refining capacity and led to an increase in domestic fuel prices by 20-30%. The success of Ukraine’s attacks is evidenced by the fact that the Russian government decided not to publish statistics regarding its gasoline production. The recent Novoshakhtynsk Oil Products Plant attack destroyed 1.5 million tons of oil and oil products worth $540M.

There are about 30 large oil refineries and another 80 mini-refineries in Russia which Ukrainian forces can strike. Of course, this will not lead to the complete collapse of the Russian economy, but it will significantly hinder its functioning.

Due to sanctions, Russia has lost production capabilities that are difficult and expensive to restore. The destruction of refineries in the European portion of Russia will make it difficult to supply their army with petroleum products.