Ukrainian "long-range sanctions" from January to May of this year have struck 15 Russian oil refineries. This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy while commenting on a report by the country's Foreign Intelligence Service regarding Russia's economic situation.

Hidden crisis and statistics

According to the head of state, the real state of affairs in the Russian economy is being concealed from the Russian leadership. Zelenskyy emphasized that Vladimir Putin "does not even receive all the statistics on what is really happening".

"Russia will run into this wall of a real crisis due to its own stupidity," noted the Ukrainian leader. He added that Kyiv has offered all formats for real negotiations and security guarantees, but the decision for peace depends solely on the Russian president.

Economic losses and bans

The plan for Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure is being implemented in stages. Zelenskyy reported that as of May, nearly 40% of Russia's primary oil refining capacity has been taken out of operation. This has led to serious consequences for fuel logistics:

  • Russia has imposed a ban on the export of aviation fuel.
  • Export of gasoline is banned.
  • A ban on the export of diesel fuel is being considered.

"For a country that was recently called a gas station, losing even this is a significant story," Zelenskyy commented.

Chronicle of recent strikes

The activity of Ukrainian defense forces increased significantly in May, covering regions at a huge distance from the border:

  • May 29: For the first time since the start of the war, a missile danger regime was declared in Yamal and neighboring regions located more than 2,000 km from the Ukrainian border.
  • Early morning of May 30: Russian regions were subjected to drone raids. A tanker was attacked in Taganrog (Rostov region), and an oil depot in Armavir (Krasnodar Krai) was hit.
  • Early morning of May 31: Ukrainian defense forces struck the Saratov oil refinery in the Volga region. The enterprise is part of Rosneft and participates in fueling occupation forces. A large fire broke out at the plant after the attack.