Fuel Sales Suspended in Crimea
Russian-backed authorities have halted fuel sales to the public in the occupied region of Crimea as Ukraine intensifies its attacks on the peninsula. Fuel had already been rationed due to shortages caused by Ukraine's recent campaign targeting supply routes in Russian-occupied territories.
Governor Sergey Aksyonov announced that individuals and businesses would be denied access at petrol stations, with fuel sales restricted solely to government agencies responsible for ensuring Crimea's "functioning and security".
Casualties from Drone Attack
Earlier, Aksyonov reported that four people were killed and 28 injured following a Ukrainian drone strike on an oil depot in Kerch overnight. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attack as a
"just response to Russia's brutal attacks".
Crimea, illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, has been facing significant logistical challenges and shortages amid ongoing conflict.
Additional Strikes in Krasnodar and Beyond
Zelensky further stated that Kyiv had targeted a logistics facility for oil transportation in Russia's Krasnodar region, which lies adjacent to Crimea across the Kerch Strait. Local authorities reported one fatality on a passenger ferry as a result of these strikes.
The president also mentioned that military logistics facilities and radar systems were hit, though he did not specify their locations.
"Russia understands only strength, and our long-range strength is certainly working for peace,"Zelensky said in a statement posted on X.
Casualties from Weekend Attacks
Zelensky added that at least seven people were killed in Russian attacks over the weekend, with children among more than 30 injured.
In response, Russia's defence ministry stated that 239 Ukrainian drones had been shot down overnight.
Escalation of Attacks Amid Stalled Ceasefire Talks
Both sides have escalated attacks in recent months as progress towards a ceasefire remains stalled more than four years after Russia's full-scale invasion.
Kyiv has concentrated its efforts on energy infrastructure and oil facilities, which it views as critical to sustaining the Russian war effort.
Last week, specks of black oil rained down on Moscow following Ukraine's strike on an oil refinery, marking the largest attack of the war so far. Moscow has promised retaliation for this assault.
Strategic Importance and Civilian Impact in Crimea
Crimea continues to experience severe logistical difficulties and shortages. The peninsula holds strategic importance as a base from which Moscow's forces launch strikes towards the rest of Ukraine.
Additionally, Crimea is a popular summer holiday destination for Russians, some of whom have reported difficulties obtaining petrol to return home.
