How are Ukraine’s strikes inside Russia affecting Moscow’s economy?
Ukraine’s recent long-range strikes on Russian territory are starting to put real pressure on Moscow’s economy, particularly its vital oil sector. In just the past several days, Ukrainian forces have reportedly hit around ten facilities across Russia, disrupting roughly 17% of the country’s refining capacity. That equals more than a million barrels of oil per day, according to multiple independent assessments.
Retired U.S. Army General Ben Hodges, former commander of U.S. Army Europe, warned that Russia may not be able to cope if Ukraine maintains this pace of attacks. Speaking to Times Radio, he explained that Russia simply doesn’t have enough air defense systems to protect such a vast network of refineries and energy infrastructure. “Russia is in real trouble economically,” he said, stressing that Moscow cannot sustain repeated losses of this scale.
However, Hodges also pointed out that momentum is key. While Ukraine has already demonstrated it can strike as far as 600 miles inside Russia, damaged refineries can often be repaired within a week. To truly weaken Russia’s oil sector, Kyiv would need to apply consistent and sustained pressure over time.
He also urged Ukraine’s allies in Europe—particularly the UK, Germany, and Norway—to step up support in order to boost Kyiv’s production capacity and offensive capabilities. Without such backing, Ukraine risks losing the advantage these deep strikes could bring.
All of this is unfolding while diplomatic efforts remain stalled. U.S. President Donald Trump recently extended his deadline for a negotiated settlement after separate meetings with both Putin and Zelensky, but no tangible breakthrough has been achieved. For now, Ukraine appears to be using strikes on Russia’s energy sector as leverage—hitting Moscow where it hurts most: its economy.
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