Ukraine continues to damage Russian energy infrastructure, and at an accelerated pace, writes the English magazine The Economist.
A new wave of attacks on oil refineries and other fuel facilities began in August. The number of strikes, according to the publication, has increased from two or three per week to four or five. "They will soon become daily", predicts The Economist.
According to the authors, the "ruthless focus" on oil refineries "is most significantly changing the rhetoric of the war and, apparently, even helping to change Donald Trump's view of the prospects for Ukraine".
In late August, Reuters reported that approximately 17% of Russia's refining capacity was at least temporarily disabled. "This figure is now undoubtedly higher", the Economist believes. "According to some unconfirmed reports, up to 40% of capacity has been damaged".
Benedict George, head of oil pricing for Europe at Argus Media, claims that Ukraine has hit 16 of Russia's 38 refineries and when refineries are attacked repeatedly, "the damage becomes long-lasting".
Queues are forming at gas stations in an increasing number of Russian regions, and some regions have imposed restrictions on fuel sales, the publication notes. According to the publication, approximately 60% of long-range strikes on Russian territory are carried out by Ukrainian Fire Point FP-1 drones, which, despite their smaller payload, can hit targets at a distance of up to 1,500 km.
The use of "Flamingo" cruise missiles is also reported, adds "The Economist", without specifying the source of the information.