Coordinated Operation by Ukraine's Defense Forces
Ukraine's defense forces executed a well-coordinated mission to cripple Russian logistics, striking the Moscow Oil Refinery, a fuel depot in the Rostov region, and multiple bridges in occupied territories. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that drone strikes on the Moscow refinery were a pivotal part of the operation, highlighting the effectiveness of Ukraine's long-range systems within the Moscow region. This campaign underscores Ukraine's growing capability to hit strategic targets far behind enemy lines.
The results of the overnight attacks were disclosed by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the Special Operations Forces. On the night of June 18, Ukrainian troops targeted the 'Gukovo' fuel depot in the Rostov region. Additionally, strikes were carried out on a railway bridge crossing the North Crimean Canal on the occupied peninsula, as well as a road bridge over the Kalka River in Donetsk region.
Primary Targets and Consequences
The main target was the Moscow Oil Refinery in Kapotnya, located just 15 kilometers from the Kremlin. This facility supplies over 50% of central Russia's diesel fuel needs and provides aviation kerosene for Moscow's airports. During the attack, drones hit the primary oil processing unit, catalytic cracking unit, and the tank farm.
- All airports in the Russian capital were shut down.
- Road traffic near the refinery was partially blocked.
- At least five large fires broke out at the facility.
Earlier in mid-June, Ukraine's defense forces also destroyed seven tanks at the 'Palkino' oil pumping station in the Yaroslavl region and severely damaged oil terminals in the Volgograd region and Krasnodar Krai.
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This operation signals an intensification of Ukrainian efforts to dismantle critical Russian infrastructure, potentially crippling the enemy's logistical capabilities. Successful strikes on these strategic assets could turn this campaign into a decisive factor in the broader war, demonstrating Ukraine's ability to launch long-range, coordinated attacks for maximum impact.
This recent operation marks a significant escalation in Ukraine's military strategy, especially following the second attack on the Moscow refinery within a week. The repeated targeting of such critical infrastructure highlights not only the urgency of Ukraine's efforts but also the potential implications for Russian supply chains and military logistics in the region.