Ukraine has dealt another major blow to Russia’s energy industry, with Ukrainian military intelligence reporting that long-range drone strikes have knocked 15 of Russia’s 38 major oil refineries out of operation, while forcing another 12 to reduce production.
According to Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence Directorate (HUR), the strikes had caused more than $23.2 billion in economic damage as of late September 2026. Oil-processing volumes at the affected facilities have declined by 55.4% compared with the beginning of the year.
Among the heavily affected facilities are the Ryazan, Moscow, Yaroslavl and Perm refineries, which play significant roles in Russia’s fuel production. Five major affected facilities collectively account for approximately 33% of the country's refining capacity.
The damage is creating mounting difficulties for the Kremlin as Russia struggles to balance domestic fuel demand with its export commitments. Ukraine's intelligence also reports that Moscow is increasingly relying on distant refineries to compensate for lost production, but transportation shortages and logistical challenges are limiting their effectiveness.
Replacing damaged equipment could cost Russia more than $20 billion, with international sanctions making access to specialised machinery and components increasingly difficult.
The pressure is continuing. On November 5, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck the major Ryazan refinery, triggering fires at the industrial facility.
Ukraine's strategy is increasingly targeting the economic machinery sustaining Russia's war effort, turning its oil infrastructure into a costly battlefield far beyond the front lines. #breakingnews #reality
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