Ukrainian Drones Hit 27 of 32 Russian Refineries, Exposing Oil Sector Vulnerabilities

Ukraine launched its largest drone attack on Moscow this weekend, targeting Russian oil refineries as part of a strategy to weaken Moscow's petroleum industry and expose its vulnerabilities. Of Russia's 32 major refineries, 27 have been struck by Ukrainian drones as of late August. In June, refined oil volumes fell to their lowest level in over 20 years, down 30% year-on-year, causing fuel shortages and forcing Moscow to limit exports. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski warned that Ukraine disabled half of Russia's refining capacity in six months, suggesting NATO could do similar damage in six weeks if attacked. Russia continues producing oil and repairing facilities, limiting short-term impact.