Strikes on Refineries and New Sanctions: Tsakhkna Identifies Russia’s Critical Breaking Point.

Russia’s Oil Refining Infrastructure Under Pressure

According to Espreso.tv: Speaking at the reconstruction conference in Gdańsk, Tsakhkna told Bloomberg that Russia has reached a critical juncture where intensified pressure from new EU sanctions is essential. He acknowledged that existing sanctions are having an impact but stressed that 'we are not there yet.' Since the start of 2026, Ukraine’s defense forces have doubled the frequency of strikes on Russian oil refining infrastructure, inflicting heavy losses. Two dozen major refineries and terminals have been hit, resulting in a total capacity loss of over 30%.

Attacks on Oil Facilities

In May 2026, Ukraine’s Armed Forces set a record by launching 30 attacks on oil facilities in a single month. This has cost Russia at least $7 billion due to plant shutdowns and shipment delays. Fuel shortages have become visible in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and occupied territories—clear signs of serious economic trouble within the country.

At the G7 summit in Évian, Donald Trump agreed to tighten sanctions on Russia’s energy sector. Tsakhkna further emphasized that

'Europe and Ukraine are on the same side'

This situation highlights the ongoing escalation of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, accompanied by growing economic difficulties for Moscow. Tougher sanctions from the international community—particularly the European Union and G7 nations—could further worsen Russia’s economic outlook, undermining its ability to sustain military operations. By maintaining pressure on Russia’s energy infrastructure, Ukrainian forces demonstrate their resolve to defend territorial integrity and sovereignty.