Moscow Oil Refinery Knocked Out by Ukraine; Repairs Expected to Take Six Months.

Strikes on the Moscow Refinery

According to Espreso.tv: Ukraine has ramped up attacks on the Moscow Oil Refinery, the primary fuel supplier for the capital region, causing severe damage and triggering a fuel shortage across the country. In 2024, this facility processed 11.6 million tons of crude oil, yielding 2.9 million tons of gasoline and 3.2 million tons of diesel. However, following a series of Ukrainian drone strikes, the plant has been heavily crippled.

The first assault occurred on June 16, 2026, when Ukrainian drones targeted the refinery in Kapotnya for the first time. A follow-up strike on June 18, 2026, ignited a massive fire. According to Oleg Sarkits, the facility has suffered over 90% damage. Satellite imagery captured on June 20, 2026, revealed destroyed storage tanks and damage to the AVT-6 distillation unit.

Fallout from the Attacks

Repairing the refinery will take at least six months, a process complicated by the lack of access to Western equipment due to sanctions.

“It will take at least half a year to carry out repairs,” a Reuters source stated.

The strikes on the Moscow Refinery have not only inflicted physical destruction but also jeopardized the stability of Ukraine’s fuel market. The emerging fuel shortage could drive up energy prices and disrupt transport logistics, further straining the nation’s economic situation. Amid the ongoing war and international sanctions, restoring production or securing alternative fuel imports may become critical for meeting the needs of both the population and businesses.