Ukraine Resumes Russian Oil Refinery Strikes: Moscow
Russia has accused Ukraine of resuming drone strikes against its oil refineries after a brief reduction in attacks, raising fresh tensions over energy infrastructure during the ongoing war. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said on Friday, October 30, 2026, that three refineries and a gas-chemical complex had been targeted, despite recent American efforts to secure a pause in attacks on energy facilities.
Russia Reports Drone Attacks on Three Oil Refineries
Novak confirmed that the latest attacks targeted four energy-processing facilities, although he said only one had sustained minor damage. He maintained that Russian air defence systems and protective measures had limited the impact of the strikes.
Videos circulating online appeared to show smoke rising from an oil refinery in Russia’s Samara region. The Novokuibyshevsk refinery, operated by Rosneft, was identified as a possible target, although the full extent of damage remained unclear.
Ukrainian authorities did not immediately comment on the latest Russian allegations.
Trump Pressures Ukraine to Halt Russian Refinery Strikes
The reported attacks followed pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly urged Kyiv to stop targeting Russian energy infrastructure.
Trump has linked Ukrainian refinery strikes to rising international diesel prices, although the wider energy crisis has also been affected by the conflict involving Iran.
Washington announced an energy ceasefire initiative earlier in October, but its implementation remained disputed.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv had temporarily suspended refinery attacks while Russia continued striking Ukrainian power facilities.
Ukraine Targets Russian Oil Revenues Amid Continuing War
Ukraine has repeatedly targeted Russian refineries and fuel depots, arguing that disrupting petroleum production reduces Moscow’s capacity to finance military operations.
Earlier strikes contributed to fuel shortages and restrictions on Russian petroleum exports.
The temporary reduction in attacks allowed Russian refineries to increase processing volumes during the second half of October.
However, renewed strikes could complicate efforts to stabilise fuel supplies and advance diplomatic negotiations.
The latest developments underline continuing disagreements over reciprocal restrictions on attacks against energy infrastructure.
