Ukraine to Intensify Strikes on Russian Refineries After Moscow's New Airstrike Policy

Ukraine will intensify attacks on Russian oil refineries in response to Moscow's new policy of airstrikes targeting civilian infrastructure, President Volodymyr Zelensky said, while vowing not to strike civilian objects. Zelensky said Ukrainian intelligence obtained documents showing President Vladimir Putin issued a "new doctrine" authorizing attacks on schools, hospitals, roads, and logistics to pressure people to flee Kyiv and other cities. He said the shift stems from Putin's desire to appear strong amid military losses. Ukraine's "Vivaldi" counteroffensive has recaptured about 140 square kilometers in the Donbas region. Zelensky urged Washington not to normalize relations with Russia, while Kyiv works with European partners to address a $27 billion defense budget shortfall.