Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure cause fuel supply chaos and increase pressure on Moscow

Ukraine’s repeated attacks on Russia’s energy facilities have caused major fuel supply difficulties in a number of Russian regions, while simultaneously increasing pressure on the Kremlin leadership.

Margus Tsahkna, Estonia’s foreign minister, revealed that even within Russian oligarch circles serious doubts are beginning to emerge about the course of the conflict in Ukraine. He stressed that a significant number of those who until recently predicted a quick victory no longer see such an outcome as credible.

His remarks coincide with a new phase of escalation in Ukraine’s drone campaigns, which are targeting refineries and oil depots on Russian soil. According to statistics published by the geopolitical intelligence firm Rochan Consulting, dozens of key energy facilities have been hit since the start of 2026.

The consequences of these operations were felt immediately on the ground, with fuel sales restrictions imposed in several areas. Local media reports describe the formation of extremely long queues at gas stations, as well as numerous incidents among angry citizens.

The Estonian minister assessed that although Russia continues to pose an ongoing threat and provocations remain a possible scenario, a large-scale conventional offensive against NATO member states in the near future seems impossible due to the depletion of its resources.

For its part, Kyiv has made it clear that it has no intention of stopping strikes against strategic targets inside Russia. The aim of this strategy is to increase the cost of the war for Moscow and force the Kremlin to agree to sit at the peace table to end the hostilities.