In a significant escalation of its military campaign, Ukraine has deployed its newly developed long-range missiles and drones to target Russian oil facilities, leading to considerable gas shortages in Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine's recent counter-offensive has thwarted Russian ambitions to capture areas in the eastern Donetsk region. Zelenskyy highlighted the effectiveness of Ukraine's new Palianytsia missile, which has hit numerous Russian military depots, and the Ruta missile drone, which successfully targeted a Russian offshore oil platform over 250 kilometers away. Adding to the assault, swarms of up to 300 Liutyi and Fire Point long-range drones have struck Russian energy facilities, complemented by the deployment of Neptune and Flamingo missile systems against Russian positions. Zelenskyy noted the clear impact of these strikes on Russian fuel supplies, as demonstrated by the country's need to increase imports. Russia's gasoline imports from Belarus have reportedly increased sixfold, with import duties removed, and additional supplies sourced from China. According to Ukrainian intelligence, these strikes have resulted in a loss of up to 20% of Russia's gasoline supply. Despite no public acknowledgment from Russian officials regarding the gas shortages, the development marks a significant achievement for Kyiv amid the challenges posed by Russia's larger military and economic resources. As Ukraine continues to innovate in defence technology, Western military aid remains vital, though restrictions from the US and European allies limit deep strikes within Russia to avoid escalating the conflict further. Zelenskyy has specifically requested long-range Tomahawk missiles from the US, weapons previously withheld due to the potential for intensifying the situation. US President Donald Trump hinted at a potential shift in policy, suggesting a "sort of decision" had been made about the Tomahawks, although details remain undisclosed. Zelenskyy expressed optimism, interpreting the absence of a definitive "no" from US officials as a positive sign. In parallel, a Ukrainian delegation led by Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko is set to visit the US to discuss topics including air defense, energy cooperation, sanctions, and the potential utilization of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's efforts. On the ground, the fiercest battles are occurring around Pokrovsk and Dobropillia in Donetsk, where a Ukrainian counter-offensive has reportedly disrupted Russia's summer offensive plans. Zelenskyy claims that Moscow's objective to take significant parts of the region by November has been thwarted, with intercepted communications revealing orders for Russian troops to capture Pokrovsk "at any cost." Acknowledging the possibility of further attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as winter approaches, Zelenskyy outlined contingency plans. These include boosting domestic natural gas extraction and switching to imports as necessary, with an understanding of the volumes, costs, and funding sources needed to address this crucial challenge.
In summary, Ukraine's strategic use of new military technology is reshaping the dynamics of its ongoing conflict with Russia, highlighting the nation's resilience and ingenuity in the face of adversity.
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