Eight of Russia’s Ten Largest Oil Refineries Hit by Ukraine, Triggering Fuel Shortages.

Strikes on Russian Oil Infrastructure

According to UATV: In May, Ukrainian forces carried out a record number of strikes on Russia’s oil infrastructure, targeting eight of the country’s ten biggest refineries. These attacks have led to fuel sale restrictions both within Russia and in temporarily occupied areas of Ukraine. At least 30 assaults on Russian oil facilities were recorded, delivering a significant blow to the nation’s economy.

By the second half of May, refineries with a combined daily capacity of roughly 203,000 tonnes had been shut down in Russia. Diesel production fell by 10%, following a similar drop in April. In response, the Russian government imposed a ban on aviation kerosene exports, effective until November 30, 2026. The severity of the situation is further underscored by fuel rationing—limits on gasoline and diesel sales—now in place in Crimea and Sevastopol.

Economic Fallout and International Pressure

Energy expert Maksym Gardus noted that

“by banning oil product exports, the Russian government is hurting its own oil extraction companies.”

“the fuel crisis is part of a broader pressure campaign targeting Russia’s oil and extraction industries.”

These developments unfold against the backdrop of the EU’s 21st sanctions package against Russia, highlighting the global pressure on the country. Overall, Russia’s oil infrastructure remains under severe strain, as Ukrainian forces continue to erode its resource capabilities. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized:

“We are absolutely justly returning the war to where it came from.”

May thus proved to be a critical month for Russia’s oil sector, with fuel sale restrictions now affecting not only Russia but also the occupied territories of Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia.

These events signal an escalation in the conflict and growing economic pressure on Russia from both Ukraine and the international community. Strikes on oil infrastructure not only deplete Russia’s resources but also hinder its ability to fund military operations. Such actions underscore the strategic importance of controlling energy assets in wartime and could provoke further sanctions and international isolation for Russia.