Ukraine’s continued strikes on Russian military and energy infrastructure have significantly weakened Moscow’s ability to sustain its war effort. Retired Major General Viktor Yagun of the Security Service of Ukraine stated that these targeted attacks have drastically reduced Russia’s production capacity. More critically, Russia lacks the ability to repair and restore its damaged facilities, forcing it to divert fuel from the civilian sector to sustain military operations. This shift has led to growing discontent among the Russian population, increasing pressure on the Kremlin.
Yagun explained that while the direct military impact of Ukraine’s strikes is significant, the economic and political consequences are even greater. By targeting key infrastructure, Ukraine is not only limiting Russia’s ability to wage war but also disrupting its economy and fuelling domestic unrest. The diversion of fuel and resources to the military has caused shortages in civilian sectors, leading to frustration among ordinary Russians. Meanwhile, strikes on central Moscow serve as psychological attacks, reminding Muscovites—who live in an isolated information bubble—that the war is real and affecting them directly.
On March 14, Ukraine launched long range drone strikes on Russian energy and military sites. Gas compressor stations in Russia’s Tambov and Saratov regions were hit, significantly disrupting fuel supplies. Additionally, drones struck a missile depot in Belgorod region, triggering a major explosion and ammunition detonation. The impact of these attacks is severe, as Russia is unable to quickly replenish destroyed stockpiles or repair damaged infrastructure.
Russia has acknowledged the escalation in Ukrainian strikes, with the Ministry of Defence claiming that at least 91 drones were intercepted near Moscow and over 240 across the country. However, key sites, including an oil refinery that supplies over a third of the capital’s fuel and a production facility in Orel region, were successfully hit. Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, described the attack as the largest on the city since the war began. At least three people were killed and 18 injured, while four major airports were temporarily shut down. Damage to railway infrastructure further disrupted transportation and logistics in the capital.
The Kremlin’s failure to defend its strategic assets highlights the growing weaknesses in Russia’s war effort. Despite investing heavily in air defences, Russian military infrastructure remains vulnerable. The inability to restore destroyed facilities means that every Ukrainian strike has a long lasting effect. The redirection of fuel and supplies from the civilian sector to the military is not only unsustainable but also fuels public dissatisfaction with the war. As shortages grow, discontent spreads, creating further instability for the Kremlin.
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