Ukraine has conducted over 80 drone attacks on Russian oil refineries and depots in the past year, according to a BBC investigation. The attacks have decreased in frequency since the second half of last year but have significant long-term effects on Russia’s top export.
The strikes target facilities used to supply military equipment, rather than those for domestic fuel production. This shift in strategy has reduced fires at refineries and increased costs for repairs. Ukraine’s drone strikes may hinder Russia’s ability to fund its nearly four-year war effort due to the lack of funding from destroyed oil facilities.
Sanctions have also made it difficult for Russia to repair damaged equipment, with estimated reconstruction costs ranging from tens of millions of dollars per plant. The impact on Russia’s economy is significant, with lower oil production and increased imports affecting global markets.
Experts say Ukraine’s drone strikes are effective sanctions that help reduce the war machine’s fuel supply. The attacks may lead to government intervention in the market, including redirecting supplies onto the domestic market at the expense of foreign markets.
As the conflict continues, it remains to be seen how Ukraine will adjust its strategy and what consequences these attacks will have on Moscow’s economy and war effort.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/russia-map-shows-oil-hubs-hit-dozens-ukraine-drone-raids-2011598