Escalating attacks on Kyiv and the fuel crisis in Russia

On Sunday, the Russian Ministry of Defense, quoted by Reuters, reported the intensification of attacks on Kiev and other regions of Ukraine. This is a direct response to the words of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who announced intensified raids on Russian refineries.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized that these actions are a response to the change in Russian military doctrine, which results in more and more frequent attacks on civilian targets, such as schools and hospitals.

Bridges under fire, residents in fear

For several days, the Russians have been regularly attacking strategic bridges in Kiev. On Sunday, the North Bridge was once again the target, and the day before - the South Bridge, the second largest crossing in the capital. These actions are aimed at paralyzing communication in the city. In Kiev, with a population of 3 million, many people commute every day from the left bank of the Dnieper to the right bank, where the most important government offices and institutions are located.

President Zelensky left no doubts during Sunday's press conference. Russia wants to interrupt connections between the left and right banks, cause paralysis and force people to leave large cities, especially Kiev, Zelensky said.

Fuel crisis in Russia after Ukrainian airstrikes

Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries are bringing tangible results. In spring and summer, Russia was struggling with a serious fuel crisis. According to the International Energy Agency, in June 2026, Russian crude oil processing fell to its lowest level in over two decades. Gasoline production decreased by 20 percent and diesel oil by as much as 30 percent compared to last year.

In response to these problems, the government in Moscow decided to introduce a ban on the export of diesel oil, which was extended until the end of the month. Before the restrictions were introduced, Russia was the second largest exporter of this fuel in the world, second only to the United States.