Kyiv is preparing to escalate its strikes against Russian oil refineries, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed, framing the move as a necessary counter to a new Russian doctrine aimed at breaking Ukrainian morale ahead of winter. While the president assured that Ukrainian forces will not target civilian objects, the escalation comes after intelligence revealed that Moscow has broadened its scope of attacks to include logistics, roads, schools, and hospitals in an effort to compel residents to flee major cities like Kyiv.
“We have to respond in any way we can,” Zelenskyy told Reuters. “With their attacks on our energy, we have to respond on their energy. First of all, oil refiners: what gives money to them for this war.” He emphasized that despite the expanded targeting of energy infrastructure, Ukraine is maintaining a strict policy against striking civilian sites.
The announcement follows a wave of Russian attacks on Saturday that killed at least six people in Ukraine and caused significant damage to Kyiv’s Northern Bridge, disrupting traffic for a third consecutive day. Moscow has previously targeted apartment blocks, supermarkets, gas stations, and data centers in what appears to be a concerted campaign to complicate daily life in the Ukrainian capital.
On the eastern front, Zelenskyy reported that the ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive, codenamed Vivaldi, has reclaimed approximately 140 square kilometers (54 square miles) of territory in the Donbas region. The gains represent a strategic setback for Vladimir Putin, who has stated that Russia intends to secure full control of the Donbas prior to entering any peace negotiations.
Addressing military capabilities, the president acknowledged challenges regarding ammunition supplies for Ukraine’s fighter jets, including F-16s and MiG aircraft, which currently account for roughly 60% of downed Russian jet-powered drones. To mitigate these shortages, Kyiv is enhancing its jamming systems and expects to receive its initial shipment of compact, cost-effective air defense missiles in the latter half of October, designed specifically to intercept Shahed drones. Additionally, Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine has begun deploying its domestically produced FP-7 ballistic missile, which boasts a range of approximately 250 kilometers, with a longer-range FP-9 model expected to be ready by autumn.
In neighboring Latvia, early exit polls from the parliamentary election suggest a continued mandate for pro-Ukrainian policy. Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs’s centrist United List party is leading with 36.5% of the vote based on 72% of ballots counted. Kulbergs reaffirmed his stance that economic ties with Russia weaken national security, stating, “Russia would exploit this.” Meanwhile, populist parties such as Latvia First also gained ground, capitalizing on voter concerns regarding the cost of living and the proximity of the war. Kulbergs has pledged to maintain defense spending at 5% of GDP and expand anti-drone capabilities, rejecting any cooperation with pro-Russian factions.
Targeting refineries hurts Russia’s war funding, but civilians on both sides will feel the economic pain eventually.
Reclaiming 140 sq km in Donbas is concrete progress. Vivaldi seems to be working despite ammo shortages.
The FP-7 missile deployment is significant. Domestically produced solutions are key to sustainable defense.
Interesting that Latvia’s election results reinforce the stance against Russian economic ties. Regional solidarity matters.
Striking energy infrastructure is a bold escalation. Hope this doesn’t backfire and worsen the humanitarian situation.