Russia vows stronger strikes on Kyiv after Moscow refinery attack

Russia's Defense Ministry has threatened to intensify strikes on Kyiv in response to a Ukrainian attack on a Moscow oil refinery, according to a statement published on September 20. The ministry claimed the overnight assault on Russian territory was an attempt to disrupt State Duma elections. The ministry asserted it shot down 8 missiles and 1,951 drones, claiming the "massive attack on Moscow failed" and that the enemy did not achieve its objectives. However, it did not explain the large fire at the Moscow refinery in Kapotnya, which was confirmed by Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. The Ukrainian strike caused fires at the refinery and a logistics park, damaged a power plant, and paralyzed Moscow airports, disrupting hundreds of flights. The ministry stated it will continue and strengthen high-precision strikes on military objects in Kyiv in response.