How Ukraine’s devastating attacks on Putin’s oil refineries brought the war to Russia’s doorstep
Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure have reached as far as Siberia, 1,800km from the border, and struck a Moscow oil refinery using 200 drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defended the refinery strikes as a direct response to attacks on Ukraine, warning that if Ukraine burns, Moscow burns too. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued a furious ultimatum promising massive retaliation. Analysts note these sustained operations are driving up repair costs at Russian facilities, while potential United States pressure on Kyiv could alter the campaign.
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- ✓ Ukrainian drones struck an oil refinery in Siberia 1,800km from the border.
- ✓ Ukraine targeted a Moscow oil refinery using 200 drones.
- ✓ Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the strikes on Russian oil refineries are a response to attacks on Ukraine and warned that if Ukraine burns, Moscow burns too.
- ✓ Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued an ultimatum and vowed massive retaliation following the strikes.
What changed
Ukrainian forces launched an unprecedented drone attack hitting a Siberian oil refinery 1,800km from the border alongside a strike on a Moscow facility using 200 drones.
Live updates
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Ukraine Strikes Moscow Refinery as Attacks Reach Siberia
Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure have reached as far as Siberia, 1,800km from the border, and struck a Moscow oil refinery using 200 drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defended the refinery strikes as a direct response to attacks on Ukraine, warning that if Ukraine burns, Moscow burns too. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued a furious ultimatum promising massive retaliation. Analysts note these sustained operations are driving up repair costs at Russian facilities, while potential United States pressure on Kyiv could alter the campaign.
Why it matters
Ukraine has hit Russian refineries at least one hundred fourteen times this year, more than double the frequency of last year. These long-range operations expand the conflict directly into Russian domestic energy networks and political centers. The campaign occurs alongside ongoing diplomatic friction regarding delayed interceptor missile deliveries paid for by European nations.
What is confirmed
- Ukrainian drones struck an oil refinery in Siberia 1,800km from the border.
- Ukraine targeted a Moscow oil refinery using 200 drones.
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the strikes on Russian oil refineries are a response to attacks on Ukraine and warned that if Ukraine burns, Moscow burns too.
- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued an ultimatum and vowed massive retaliation following the strikes.
Still unconfirmed
- United States pressure on Kyiv could offer relief to Russia's struggling refineries by halting or scaling back the drone campaign.
What to watch next
- Concrete evidence of the scale of physical damage and repair costs at the targeted Siberian and Moscow oil refineries
- Specific retaliatory military actions or escalations ordered by Sergei Lavrov following his ultimatum
- Any formal policy shifts regarding United States pressure on Kyiv concerning the refinery strikes
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- en.parapolitika.gr — "Words Are Not Enough": Lavrov Issues Furious Ultimatum After Ukraine ...
- en.parapolitika.gr — Siberia drone attack: Oil refinery targeted 1,800km from Ukraine
- liveuamap.com — Ukraine Interactive map - Ukraine Latest news on live map -...
- nationalsecurityjournal.org — Ukraine Has Hit Russian Refineries at Least One Hundred ...
- 24tv.ua — Zelenskyy explained the strikes on Russian oil refineries and ...
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Ukraine Expands Counteroffensives as Strategic Rifts Deepen
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told United States senators that the United States is deliberately delaying interceptor missile deliveries already paid for by European nations. This diplomatic friction unfolds on day 1,700 of the conflict, coinciding with ongoing military operations. Ukraine previously launched counteroffensives in the Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk oblasts to disrupt Russian spring-summer offensives, alongside an operation near Lyman. These ground movements marked the first monthly net gain of territory for Kyiv since the 2024 Kursk offensive, bringing wider strategic implications as political pressures mount over energy markets and military supplies.
Why it matters
The war reached a milestone of 1,700 days, highlighted by Ukrainian ground maneuvers that disrupted Russian offensive planning. These military actions on the southern front and in Donetsk Oblast yielded the largest net territorial gains for Kyiv since 2023. Meanwhile, friction between Kyiv and Washington over air defense supplies complicates the operational picture.
What is confirmed
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed US senators that the United States is deliberately delaying interceptor missile deliveries that European countries have already paid for.
- Ukraine launched a local counteroffensive on the southern front in February 2026 to expel Russian forces from Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
- The military campaign later extended into Donetsk Oblast to disrupt Russia's spring-summer offensive.
- Operation Vivaldi was launched in the northern part of Donetsk Oblast near Lyman.
What to watch next
- Delivery timelines for European-funded interceptor missiles to Kyiv
- Further updates on Operation Vivaldi in northern Donetsk Oblast
- Responses from United States senators regarding Zelenskyy's claims of delayed shipments
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.theguardian.com — Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy claims US deliberately delaying...
- en.wikipedia.org — 2026 Ukrainian counteroffensives - Wikipedia
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Ukraine launches massive drone strike on St. Petersburg oil sites
Ukraine deployed over 1,000 drones in one of its largest attacks of the war, targeting St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region. The assault set an oil export terminal ablaze and hit digital infrastructure and logistics facilities. One person died and several others were injured. The strike comes as President Donald Trump blames Ukraine for rising diesel prices, which he claims could harm Republican prospects in midterm elections scheduled for two weeks from now. Russia reports the attack occurred despite Trump's efforts to protect refinery targets.
Why it matters
Ukraine is targeting Russian energy infrastructure to retaliate for airstrikes and disrupt the Russian economy. Previous campaigns disabled 51 percent of refining capacity and reduced Russia's GDP by approximately 1 percent. These offensive operations coincide with a critical shortage of Patriot interceptor missiles for Ukrainian air defense.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine launched more than 1,000 drones at Russia.
- An oil export terminal in St. Petersburg was set ablaze.
- The attack killed one person.
- President Donald Trump linked Ukrainian strikes to surging diesel prices and Republican midterm election chances.
Still unconfirmed
- The attack injured at least a dozen people and disrupted air travel.
- The strike hit digital infrastructure and logistics facilities.
What to watch next
- US midterm election results in two weeks
- Further reports on Russian refining capacity losses
- Updates on US Patriot missile deliveries to Ukraine
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- nypost.com — Blaze at St Petersburg oil sites as Ukraine launches more ...
- nationalsecurityjournal.org — Putin Has a Problem: Ukraine Just Launched 1,000 Drones at ...
- www.latimes.com — St. Petersburg oil facilities ablaze as Ukraine's drones ...
- www.cnbc.com — How Ukraine’s drone strikes on Russia crippled the world’s ...
- jen.jiji.com — The anti-rape ad 'attacks' grandparents, storm in Ireland
- efe.com — Ukraine strikes Putin’s hometown, hits oil terminals, data ...
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Ukraine Depleted of US Patriot Interceptors Amid Refinery Strikes
Ukraine has exhausted its supply of interceptor missiles for the US-made Patriot air defense system, exposing the country to increased danger from Russian ballistic missile strikes, according to a source familiar with the situation. This shortage coincides with Ukraine's ongoing drone and missile campaign against Russian oil refineries. Previous strikes disabled 51 percent of Russia's refining capacity and cost the Russian economy about 1 percent of gross domestic product, according to Ukrainian Defense Ministry and presidential statements. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted the refinery attacks respond to Russian airstrikes.
Why it matters
The war escalated significantly when Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, threatening Ukrainian sovereignty following the 2014 Maidan Revolution and the annexation of Crimea. To counter Moscow, Kyiv initiated a systematic campaign targeting Russian energy infrastructure to damage the enemy economy and restrict military fuel supplies. The loss of Patriot interceptors drastically shifts air defense capabilities while long-range operations against Russian territory continue.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine has run out of missiles for the US-made Patriot air defense system, leaving it more vulnerable to Russian ballistic missile attacks.
- Ukrainian drone and missile strikes have disabled 51% of Russia's oil refining capacity.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the refinery attacks cost Russia around 1% of its GDP.
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that targeting refineries is a response to ongoing Russian airstrikes.
What to watch next
- Replenishment of Patriot interceptor missiles by international allies
- Further shifts in front-line positions and military operations visible on live tracking maps
- Continued impact of refinery strikes on Russian military fuel supplies
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.the-world-now.com — Ukraine Live Map — Real-Time War Zones, Strikes & Front Lines (2026)
- www.csis.org — Ukraine: Analysis, Research, & Events | CSIS
- understandingwar.org — Russian Offensive Campaign Update | Product Line | ISW
- www.cnn.com — Exclusive: Ukraine runs out of Patriot interceptor missiles ...
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Ukraine strikes Russian oil refineries, bringing war to Russia's doorstep
Ukraine's systematic drone and missile strikes have disabled 51% of Russia's oil refining capacity, according to Ukrainian Defense Ministry statements. The campaign aims to damage Russia's economy and limit fuel supplies for its military. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the attacks cost Russia around 1% of its GDP. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that targeting refineries is a response to ongoing Russian airstrikes and attempts to project strength despite territorial losses.
Why it matters
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has escalated with Ukraine launching long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries. This campaign is a significant development in the war, as it directly impacts Russia's economy and military capabilities. The strikes have resulted in substantial damage to Russia's oil refining capacity.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine's strikes have disabled 51% of Russia's oil refining capacity
- The attacks cost Russia around 1% of its GDP, according to Putin
- Operators of the 73rd Naval Special Operations Center captured several enemy soldiers in northern Ukraine
Still unconfirmed
- Ukraine shot back with a devastating attack on a Rostov oil facility hours after Trump deal
What to watch next
- Further Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries
- Russia's response to the ongoing Ukrainian campaign
- Impact on Russia's economy and military capabilities
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (5)
- www.ukrinform.net — Latest news - Ukrinform
- www.ukrinform.net — Ukrinform - Ukrainian National News Agency
- www.newsweek.com — Ukraine Strikes Major Russian Oil Hub Hours After Trump's Deal With Putin
- nationalsecurityjournal.org — Ukraine's Revenge Against Putin Has Taken A New Form: Turn ...
- www.the-express.com — Putin humiliated as Ukraine strikes Russian fuel site hours ...
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Ukraine Strikes Cripple Half of Russian Oil Refining Capacity
Long-range Ukrainian drone and missile strikes have disabled fifty-one percent of Russia's oil refining capacity, according to Ukrainian Defense Ministry statements. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that the attacks cost Russia roughly one percent of its gross domestic product. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that targeting the refineries answers ongoing Russian airstrikes and attempts by Moscow to project strength despite frontline territorial losses. The systematic campaign seeks to damage the aggressor economy and limit fuel supplies for military formations.
Why it matters
The strategic shift brings the war directly to Russia's doorstep by attacking domestic energy infrastructure. Previous reporting established that the campaign targets both the broader Russian economy and the operational fuel supplies needed for military units inside Ukraine.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine strikes disabled fifty-one percent of Russia's oil refining capacity, according to the Ukrainian Defense Ministry.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that the attacks cost Russia roughly one percent of its gross domestic product.
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the policy shift toward targeting refineries responds directly to continued Russian airstrikes and attempts by Moscow to project strength amid frontline territorial losses.
- The bombardment is said to have been a significant blow to Russia's economy.
What to watch next
- Further assessments on whether the remaining refining capacity can sustain Russian military operations.
- Additional responses from Moscow to mitigate the economic damage to its gross domestic product.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- fortune.com — Ukraine said strikes disabled 51% of Russia’s oil refining capacity. Putin said they cost 1% of GDP
- www.aol.co.uk — Putin humiliated as Ukraine bombardment cripples half of ...
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Ukraine Strikes Cripple Over Half of Russian Oil Refining Capacity
Long-range Ukrainian drone and missile strikes have disabled fifty-one percent of Russia's oil refining capacity, according to statements from the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. The systematic campaign against Russian energy infrastructure aims to damage the aggressor economy and limit fuel supplies for military formations operating in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that these attacks have cost Russia roughly one percent of its gross domestic product. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the policy shift toward targeting refineries responds directly to continued Russian airstrikes and attempts by Moscow to project strength amid frontline territorial losses.
Why it matters
The strategic destruction of Russian oil processing assets brings the economic and physical costs of the conflict directly to the Russian population. This campaign persists despite previous United States warnings concerning potential global fuel price increases ahead of midterm elections. Analysts have previously attributed fuel price spikes more to an Iran war than the refinery strikes, while Moscow has already instituted gasoline export bans in response to earlier damage.
What is confirmed
- Long-range Ukrainian strikes have put more than half of Russia's oil refining capacity out of action, according to the Defense Ministry.
- Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara stated on Oct. 4 that fifty-one percent of damaged oil refining capacity is a significant blow to the enemy economy and military supply.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin concedes that long-range strikes have cost Russia roughly 1% of GDP.
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the policy shift to hit refineries was driven by Putin's desire to appear strong while his military loses ground in a key frontline region.
What to watch next
- Further official assessments regarding the specific timeline for repairing the disabled fifty-one percent of Russia's oil refining capacity.
- Potential adjustments to United States policy regarding Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure following the expansion of refinery damage.
- Future reactions from the Russian military as fuel supply constraints impact frontline formations.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.cnbc.com — Ukraine to hit refineries in response to Russian airstrikes ...
- kyivindependent.com — Ukraine's deep strikes have wrecked over half of Russia's oil refining capacity, Defense Ministry says
- www.latimes.com — Ukraine claims to have taken out more than half of Russia's oil refining capacity
- www.theguardian.com — Ukraine war briefing: Kyiv claims half of Russia’s oil ...
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Ukraine Strikes Russian Oil Infrastructure Amid Ongoing War
Ukraine persists in executing drone and missile strikes against Russian energy infrastructure to undermine the Russian economy. A major September 20 strike hit the Kapotnya oil refinery, which supplies Moscow and military forces in Ukraine. These attacks occur despite United States warnings regarding fuel prices ahead of midterm elections. Meanwhile, analysts attribute fuel price increases primarily to an Iran war rather than the refinery campaign, and Russia has already paused gasoline exports following earlier disruptions. Moscow has suffered further losses of occupied territory while using new drones to bypass Ukrainian defenses.
Why it matters
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated significantly when Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, following the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the conflict in the Donbas region. This ongoing war represents the largest conflict in Europe since World War II, resulting in a major refugee crisis and hundreds of thousands of deaths. Strategic targeting of oil refineries brings the economic impact of the war directly to Russia's doorstep, complicating international diplomatic efforts and domestic fuel markets.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine continues to target Russian energy infrastructure with drone and missile strikes to undermine the Russian economy.
- A major September 20 strike hit the Kapotnya oil refinery supplying Moscow and military forces in Ukraine.
- Russia has paused gasoline exports following earlier disruptions to its energy sector.
- Moscow has suffered further losses of occupied territory while deploying new drones against Ukraine.
What to watch next
- Further developments regarding fuel price fluctuations and United States midterm election impacts
- Updates on the effectiveness of new Russian drones against Ukrainian air defenses
- Any official policy shifts regarding Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (8)
- kyivindependent.com — The Kyiv Independent — News from Ukraine, Eastern Europe
- www.bbc.com — Ukraine War | Latest News & Updates| BBC News
- www.aljazeera.com — Ukraine | Ukraine | Today's latest from Al Jazeera
- apnews.com — Russia-Ukraine war
- www.kyivpost.com — Get the Latest Ukraine News Today - Kyiv Post
- en.wikipedia.org — Ukraine - Wikipedia
- www.aljazeera.com — Russia tries to freeze Ukraine as it suffers record ...
- en.wikipedia.org — Russo-Ukrainian war - Wikipedia
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Ukraine Defies US Warnings With Deep Strikes On Russian Refineries
Ukraine continues to target Russian energy infrastructure with drone and missile strikes designed to undermine the Russian economy, despite US warnings regarding fuel prices ahead of midterm elections. A major September 20 strike hit the Kapotnya oil refinery supplying Moscow and military forces in Ukraine. While the United States attempts to control these attacks due to different strategic objectives, analysts attribute fuel price increases primarily to an Iran war rather than the refinery campaign. Russia has already paused gasoline exports following earlier disruptions.
Why it matters
The strategic disconnect between Washington and Kyiv highlights competing priorities in the war. Ukraine uses long-range attacks to cripple Russian war financing and domestic fuel supplies, successfully breaching defenses at distant facilities like the Kapotnya refinery despite protective netting. Meanwhile, US political concerns center on domestic economic impacts.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine launched its largest combined attack on Moscow to date on September 20, striking the Kapotnya oil refinery.
- The Kapotnya refinery supplies fuel to Moscow and Russian forces operating in Ukraine.
- The US president blames Ukrainian refinery attacks for driving up fuel prices before midterms.
- Analysts state that a US war with Iran is the main cause of rising fuel prices.
Still unconfirmed
- Russia previously paused gasoline exports in response to domestic fuel shortages caused by refinery strikes.
What to watch next
- Whether Ukraine continues long-range strikes on Russian energy infrastructure despite US pressure
- Further developments regarding domestic gasoline prices and midterm political impacts in the United States
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (3)
- theconversation.com — US attempts to control Ukraine’s attacks on Russia reflect a fundamental strategic disconnect
- www.theguardian.com — Ukraine persists with Russian oil refinery strikes, defying Trump on fuel price warnings
- acleddata.com — Are Ukraine’s Strikes on a Moscow Refinery hitting more than ...
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Ukraine Drone Strikes Cripple Russian Oil Refineries
Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure have disrupted refining capacity and triggered domestic gasoline shortages and price hikes. Russian President Vladimir Putin privately warned United States officials that he plans to retaliate against Ukraine following these attacks on nearly all of Russia's oil refineries. The campaign targets Putin's war financing, with strikes hitting major energy sites including a facility in Perm, located approximately 1,450 kilometers or 900 miles from the Ukrainian border. Russia has paused gasoline exports in response to the domestic fuel shortages.
Why it matters
The aerial campaign brings the war directly into Russian territory, hitting critical facilities far from the frontline. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy secured further support from the G7 summit following coordination calls with the United States and France.
What is confirmed
- Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted Russian oil refineries, causing fuel shortages and price hikes.
- At least ten major energy sites were hit in August, impacting over 10 percent of refining capacity.
- Russia has paused gasoline exports due to rising demand and recent strikes.
- Ukrainian forces targeted the Lukoil-Permnefteorgsintez oil refinery in Perm, located approximately 1,450 kilometers or 900 miles from the Ukrainian border.
Still unconfirmed
- Vladimir Putin privately informed United States officials that he intends to escalate attacks on Ukraine in payback for the energy strikes.
What to watch next
- Specific retaliatory strikes by Russia against Ukrainian energy or infrastructure targets
- Official announcements regarding the resumption or permanent cessation of Russian gasoline exports
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- spectrumlocalnews.com — Ukrainian drones hit oil refinery in Moscow - Spectrum News
- spectrumlocalnews.com — Ukrainian drones strike a top Russian oil refinery - Spectrum News
- www.wionews.com — Are Ukrainian drones pushing Russia into a fuel crisis? How ... - WION
- kyivindependent.com — Ukrainian forces reportedly strike oil refinery 1,500 kilometers from border, Russian electronics factory
- nypost.com — Exclusive | Putin plots payback for Ukraine energy attacks, tells US: 'Now it's our turn'
- www.atalayar.com — How the targeted campaign against Russian oil refineries ...
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Ukraine Launches Largest-Ever Drone and Missile Attack on Moscow
Ukraine fired over 1,000 drones and missiles at Russia in its largest-ever assault on Moscow and surrounding regions, striking critical energy infrastructure and hitting an oil refinery. The attacks coincide with the aftermath of Vladimir Putin's scripted election victory and have resulted in at least three deaths. Officials report that output at the targeted Moscow oil refinery has been halted following the Sunday strike. The unprecedented aerial offensive brings the war directly to Russia's doorstep, signaling a significant escalation in the conflict.
Why it matters
The mass strikes mark a dangerous new phase in the war following the conclusion of Russian electoral polls. Ukraine's ability to deploy hundreds of drones and missiles deep into Russian territory demonstrates an expanded capability to strike strategic targets far from the front lines. In response to the assault on the capital, Russia has signaled plans to intensify its own attacks against Kyiv.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine fired over 1,000 drones at Russia, including hundreds launched at Moscow.
- Output at the Moscow oil refinery was halted following a Sunday drone attack.
- The attacks resulted in three deaths.
Still unconfirmed
- Russia will intensify attacks on Kyiv after Moscow was hit with mass drone strikes.
What to watch next
- Confirmation of further strikes on Russian energy infrastructure
- Retaliatory missile campaigns by Russia directed at Kyiv
- Assessments of repair timelines for the halted Moscow oil refinery
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (14)
- ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos — Ukrainian drones and missiles target Moscow, oil refinery in deadly attack: Officials
- AP News — Ukraine fires over 1,000 drones at Russia, including hundreds launched at Moscow
- PBS — Ukraine fires over 1,000 drones at Russia, including 'largest ever' attack on Moscow
- The Guardian — Ukraine war briefing: Russia to ‘intensify’ attacks on Kyiv after Moscow hit with mass drone strikes
- Institute for the Study of War — Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, September 20, 2026
- washingtonpost.com — Ukraine marks Putin’s scripted election victory with assault on Moscow area
- Al Jazeera — Is it a missile? Is it a drone? What’s the Pelican used by Ukraine?
- Reuters — Moscow oil refinery output halted after Sunday drone attack, sources say
- ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos — Video Ukrainian drones and missiles target Moscow: Officials
- independent.co.uk — How Ukraine’s devastating attacks on Putin’s oil refineries brought the war to Russia’s doorstep
- ThePrint — Ukraine fires new indigenous ballistic missile in largest attack on Moscow. Why it matters
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com — 'Largest-ever' attack: Ukraine launches over 1,000 drones at Russia, oil refinery hit; 3 killed
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