Ukraine Unleashes Drone Blitz, Crippling Russian Oil Hubs in Record 1,000-Km Strikes

Ukraine Unleashes Drone Blitz, Crippling Russian Oil Hubs in Record 1,000-Km Strikes Ukrainian forces are systematically dismantling Russia's energy export network through a relentless campaign of long-range drone strikes, hitting refineries, terminals, and even offshore platforms to cut the fuel funding Moscow's war machine. In a significant escalation, Ukrainian drones struck two Russian oil platforms in the Caspian Sea, nearly 1,000 kilometers from the front lines, in a special operation this week [125610]. The platforms, named "Volga" and "Caspian," were used to supply fuel and lubricants to Russian military forces, according to a Ukrainian navy spokesperson [125610]. This deep strike is part of a broader offensive. In March, Ukraine launched a record number of long-range attacks, with Russia's oil and gas infrastructure as the primary target [125638]. The damage is now impacting global markets, causing increased volatility and rising energy prices [125638]. The campaign has left key facilities crippled. Russia's largest Black Sea oil terminal, a crucial hub for exports, is currently operating with only a single berth active after being hit by Ukrainian sea drones [125609]. A full recovery timeline remains unclear [125609]. The strategy represents a calculated shift. By targeting the energy sector, Ukraine aims to reduce the multi-billion dollar revenue stream Russia uses to finance its military operations [125638]. The strikes also demonstrate Ukraine's growing technological capability to project force deep into Russian-controlled territory [125610]. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that the security of energy infrastructure, including pipelines transiting Ukraine, cannot be guaranteed due to the ongoing threat of Russian missile attacks [125616]. Despite this, Ukraine is proceeding with European Union-backed repairs on a key Russian oil pipeline this spring [125616]. Ukraine Strikes Russian Oil Platforms 1,000 Km Behind Front Lines Ukraine's Drone Surge Hits Russian Energy, Shakes Global Markets Russia's Key Oil Hub Operates Single Berth After Drone Strikes Ukraine to Repair Key Russian Oil Pipeline, But Warns of Future Risk