Zelensky orders preemptive strikes against Russian military infrastructure

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Ukraine announced that it would now conduct preemptive strikes against facilities used by Russia to support its war effort. This decision marks a new stage in Kyiv's strategy, which seeks to increase pressure on Moscow by targeting its strategic infrastructure.

In his daily address, the Ukrainian head of state stated that he had instructed intelligence services and the armed forces to take preemptive action against sites used by Russia to intensify its military operations. According to him, these actions aim to reduce Moscow's offensive capabilities before they can be used against Ukraine.

This announcement comes as the Ukrainian army intensifies its drone strikes against Russian energy and industrial infrastructure. On Wednesday, several attacks caused power outages in the main city of Crimea, a territory annexed by Russia and regularly targeted by Ukrainian forces.

Facilities located in central and southern Russia have also been targeted. Kyiv is thus seeking to disrupt Russian energy and logistical supplies in order to force Moscow to consider negotiations to end the conflict.

According to industry sources cited by Reuters, the Moscow oil refinery suffered extensive damage in recent Ukrainian drone attacks. The facility could remain out of service for at least six months, further complicating the management of the fuel crisis affecting several Russian regions.

The latest official data published by Russian authorities also shows a 13,5% drop in petroleum product and coke production in May compared to the previous year. This decrease fuels concerns about the growing impact of Ukrainian strikes on Russia's economy and logistical capabilities, as the war continues with no immediate prospect of a resolution.