Ukraine has launched drone attacks on several Russian oil facilities, including two tankers in the Sea of Azov, on July 9, 2026. This escalation is part of an ongoing campaign against Russian energy sites, significantly contributing to a fuel crisis in Russia.
Details of the Drone Strikes
Ukrainian drones struck oil depots in the Tver and Stavropol regions overnight. According to reports from Rostov Governor Yury Slyusar, two oil tankers were set ablaze, with one still burning and the crews evacuated. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the strikes also targeted a reserve fuel storage facility 800 km from the front line and an oil-pumping station in Ufa, nearly 1,500 km from Ukraine's border.
Zelenskyy stated that these attacks are part of a broader strategy of “long-range sanctions” aimed at responding to Russian aggression and the ongoing war.
Impact on Russia's Fuel Supply
The attacks on Russian oil facilities have triggered a significant fuel crisis, with over 90% of Russian regions reporting shortages or implementing fuel rationing. This situation has forced the Russian government to ban several oil exports as domestic supply dwindles.
