Story perspectives

Ukraine Deploys 2,000-Mile Drones, Cripple Russian Refineries

6/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukraine now produces secret long-range kamikaze drones that can strike up to 2,000 miles nightly.
Ukraine launched hundreds of drones at oil refineries near Moscow and St. Petersburg, prompting Russian officials to report damage.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said June oil output fell for the sixth month because maintenance after drone strikes, with analysts expecting attacks beyond 100 km to reach 800 by year-end, pressuring energy and logistics.

History

Historical Context

During the Gulf War, the United States launched 288 Tomahawk cruise missiles on 17 January 1991, striking Iraqi oil facilities and sharply curtailing production. Decades later, Ukraine’s 2024 deployment of kamikaze drones against Russian refineries near Moscow prompted Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak to warn of a six-month output drop. Both campaigns show how precision strikes on energy sites reshape wartime strategy.

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Story summary

Ukraine now produces secret long-range kamikaze drones that can strike up to 2,000 miles nightly.
Ukraine launched hundreds of drones at oil refineries near Moscow and St. Petersburg, prompting Russian officials to report damage.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said June oil output fell for the sixth month because maintenance after drone strikes, with analysts expecting attacks beyond 100 km to reach 800 by year-end, pressuring energy and logistics.

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