Ukraine strikes Russian fuel tankers and oil refineries

Ukrainian forces launched a major series of strikes against Russian energy infrastructure and maritime logistics on July 9 and 10, targeting oil refineries, fuel depots, and a significant number of vessels in the Sea of Azov. The attacks are part of an intensified campaign to disrupt the fuel supplies critical for sustaining Russian military operations, particularly on the occupied Crimean Peninsula.

Ukraine's General Staff stated that over the first four days of the week, its forces struck at least 36 Russian vessels in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. On July 10 alone, it reported hitting 18 vessels, including at least 10 tankers, three bulk carriers, and an auxiliary vessel. The military said these ships were used to transport fuel, lubricants, and military cargo for Russia's war effort. Regional authorities in Russia's Rostov region confirmed that two tankers were damaged in Taganrog Bay, with fires breaking out on both.

Simultaneously, Ukrainian forces targeted key energy facilities inside Russia. The General Staff reported strikes on the Ilsky oil refinery in the Krasnodar region and the Ust-Luga oil refining complex in the Leningrad region, in addition to an oil depot...