Ukraine says it has knocked out over 45% of Russia's oil refining capacity

The recent strike on the Moscow Oil Refinery means that as of 21 September, Ukrainian forces have knocked out more than 45% of Russia's oil refining capacity.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: Between 14 and 20 September, Ukrainian units struck a number of key facilities in Russia and temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, primarily facilities supporting Russia's military and economic potential, the General Staff said.

On the night of 14-15 September, the Syzran Oil Refinery in Samara Oblast was struck, particularly its AVT-6 crude oil distillation unit and a tank farm.

On the night of 16-17 September, the Slavneft-YANOS Oil Refinery in Yaroslavl was struck. The facility has an annual refining capacity of about 15 million tonnes of oil. The AVT-3 crude oil distillation unit was hit.

On 20 September, Gazprom's Moscow Oil Refinery was attacked. The AVT-6 crude oil distillation unit, comprehensive oil processing unit and isomerisation unit were hit.

Quote from the General Staff: "As of 21 September 2026, following the strike on the Moscow Oil Refinery, more than 45% of Russia's oil refining capacity has been knocked out.

One consequence is a shortage of high-quality fuel in Russia. Among other things, there has been a sharp decline in the production of Euro-5/K5 standard petrol and diesel."

Details: The General Staff stressed that in striking such facilities, Ukraine is exercising its inherent right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, and such strikes are intended to reduce Russia's military and economic potential.

Background:

• US President Donald Trump said Russia has lost control of its oil refining industry and called on Moscow to end its "never-ending war" against Ukraine.
• The decline in petroleum product output in Russia following the shutdown of three refineries has caused sales of diesel fuel to plummet on the Russian exchange.

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