KYIV, Ukraine — Ukraine’s military launched a significant strike on a major oil terminal in Crimea on Monday, dealing a blow to a vital source of fuel for Russia’s war effort. This attack comes as both Ukraine and Russia face mounting pressure to sustain the long-running conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and shows no signs of resolution.
Ukrainian General Staff confirmed on social media that the oil terminal in Feodosia, located on Crimea’s southern coast, had been supplying Russian forces with critical fuel. The strike is part of Ukraine’s strategy to “undermine military and economic potential of the Russian Federation,” targeting key rear areas essential for Russia’s operations.
Russian-installed authorities in Feodosia reported a fire at the terminal early Monday but did not disclose the cause.
Intensifying Ukrainian Strikes
Ukraine has increasingly targeted logistical hubs vital to Russia’s military campaigns. This latest attack on the Feodosia terminal follows a series of strikes on oil depots, refineries, and armories, aided by Ukraine’s development of long-range drones. Kyiv aims to degrade Russia’s ability to support its front-line units, particularly in the contested eastern Donetsk region, where Ukrainian forces continue to face heavy Russian assaults.
Despite Ukraine’s successes in the strikes, it continues to seek advanced, long-range weapons from its Western allies to hit deeper into Russian-held territory. Ukraine’s requests are expected to be discussed at a meeting of defense leaders from over 50 partner nations at Ramstein Air Base in Germany next weekend, where military aid coordination will be on the agenda.
War of Attrition
the conflict has become a brutal war of attrition, with both sides enduring heavy losses and expending vast amounts of ammunition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a video address late on Sunday, described the current phase of the war as “very important,” emphasizing the need for Ukraine to keep pressure on Russia.
“Our army is working hard to hold back larger Russian forces in the east, and also maintain ground we’ve taken in Russia’s Kursk border region,” Zelenskyy said, referring to territory captured two months ago. He reiterated that Ukraine must continue to apply pressure, adding, “Only through strength can we bring peace closer.”
Missile and Drone Attacks Continue
Russia continued its bombardment of Ukraine overnight, launching six missiles and 74 Shahed drones, Ukraine’s air force reported. Missile debris landed in three districts of Kyiv, causing minor damage to civilian infrastructure and sparking a fire, though no injuries were reported. Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko confirmed that missile fragments had also fallen on a kindergarten.
Yurii Ihnat, acting head of Ukraine’s Air Force Communications Department, said two of hypersonic Kinzhal missiles aimed at Kyiv were intercepted. “Despite the improvements and use of new tactics, we managed to shoot down two missiles today,” Ihnat said, acknowledging the growing challenge of countering Russian missile technology.
Ukraine’s air defense systems have achieved high interception rates, but some weapons still penetrate. “y are learning from our mistakes and ours. Ir technology is improving, making it harder for us to shoot m down,” Ihnat explained.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed it had downed nearly two dozen Ukrainian drones overnight, underscoring the ongoing aerial battle between the two countries.
As the war enters its third year, Ukraine continues to push for stronger international support, while Russia attempts to adapt to Ukraine’s increasingly sophisticated strikes on its logistical infrastructure. The next phase of conflict is likely to hinge on the ability of both sides to sustain their respective military efforts.
