Ukraine struck a major Moscow oil refinery Thursday, according to the Associated Press. This drone attack, the second in a week, produced large plumes of smoke over the capital and disrupted flights at local airports.
What happened
Ukraine launched a significant drone assault on a prominent oil refinery in Moscow on May 27, 2026. The attack sent thick, black smoke billowing over the city and temporarily halted operations at four airports. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to the strike as a response to Russia’s ongoing aggression, stating, “If Ukraine is going to burn, your Moscow will burn too.”[1]
The refinery, one of Russia’s largest, reportedly supplies over a third of the Moscow region’s fuel. The fire ignited during the attack was quickly managed, with Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin later assuring that remaining hotspots were being addressed. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted on X that “the question for Muscovites is ‘What is going on?’ and the answer lies in Russia’s war of aggression.”
Why it matters
This incident highlights Ukraine’s strategic campaign to target Russian energy facilities, aimed at crippling Moscow’s war funding and demonstrating the impact of the invasion on Russian citizens. Reports indicate that fuel shortages are emerging across various regions, with one in four gas stations imposing restrictions on fuel sales.
The attack on the refinery and ensuing disruptions underscore the broader implications for Russian civilian life and military logistics, as Ukraine continues to employ drone strikes to cripple Russia’s supply lines and oil production efforts.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Ukraine conducted a similar drone strike on the same refinery, causing significant damage and leading to a swift response by local fire departments. This recent escalation follows a pattern of Ukraine targeting Russian energy infrastructure since the full-scale invasion began over four years ago.
In advance of the latest assault, President Zelenskyy held a coordination call with leaders from the United States and France, securing pledges of continued support during the recent G7 summit. Russian authorities have faced mounting embarrassment, including a recent drone attack that struck St. Petersburg while President Vladimir Putin hosted dignitaries.[2]
What’s next
Zelenskyy is set to meet with NATO and European Union leaders later today in Brussels to discuss further military cooperation and potential strategies to enhance air defenses against ongoing Russian missile attacks.[3]
