Ukraine’s Drone Assault on Russian Oil Terminal Disrupts Crude Exports and Fuels International Scrutiny

Ukraine launched a large-scale drone strike against Russia’s largest oil terminal, causing significant disruption to crude oil export operations. The attack, described as the most extensive drone operation in months, ignited fires on two tankers at the facility. Situated far from the combat zone, the terminal is operated by the Russian oil company Bashneft. While the fires were extinguished, the resumption of loading operations remains uncertain. The attack forms part of Ukraine’s strategy to target Russian oil infrastructure in an attempt to curtail Moscow’s resources. In a related development, former US President Donald Trump has urged NATO nations to impose tariffs on China to curb the purchase of Russian oil, arguing that such actions are crucial to effectively sanction Russia. The US government is encouraging G7 nations to intensify pressure on Russia by imposing tariffs on countries still importing Russian oil.