Ukrainian Forces Strike Key Russian Military Targets
Ukrainian military forces targeted several significant Russian military sites overnight, resulting in explosions and fires, reports 24brussels. The primary objective was the “Kirishinefteorgsintez” facility in Kirishi, Leningrad Oblast, where an explosion and fire were noted, and details are still being clarified.
The Kirishi oil refinery is one of the largest in Russia, boasting an annual processing capacity of 18.4 million tons of oil, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (GSU).
Additionally, a small missile ship, the “Buyan-M,” sustained damage near Lake Onega in the Republic of Karelia. Information regarding the strike’s effects remains unavailable.
In the Kursk region, the GSU reported a successful hit on the “Garmon” radar system and a transport-loading vehicle associated with the Iskander operational-tactical missile system. A command post for the 8th Army, stationed in the temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk Oblast, was also targeted. Further updates on these attacks are expected from the Ukrainian defenders later.
The GSU stated, “The Armed Forces continue a systematic campaign to eliminate Russian military facilities and undermine its military-economic capacity, particularly in logistics, fuel supply, munitions, and armaments.”
Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil processing plants have contributed to an unprecedented fuel crisis in the Russian energy market. Russian media reports that 38% of processing capacities (338,000 tons per day) have been idle since late September, while the capacity suitable for diesel and gasoline production fell by 6% in August and another 18% in September. Consequently, at least 20 regions in Russia, including the temporarily occupied territories and Crimea, are experiencing fuel shortages. Additionally, fuel prices are rising within Russia.
This ongoing conflict continues to demonstrate the complex interplay of actions and responses between Ukraine and Russia, with implications that extend beyond immediate military outcomes.
