Ukraine Intensifies Strikes, Targets Russian Oil Infrastructure
Kyiv is escalating its long-range strike capabilities, targeting key oil facilities deep within Russia. Recent attacks, confirmed by Ukraine’s SBU security service, hit a Lukoil-owned refinery in Perm, over 1,500km from Ukraine, and another in Orsk, in the Orenburg region. The SBU stated the Perm refinery has a capacity of nearly 13 million metric tonnes per year. Ukraine’s general staff reported a fire following the strike on the Orsk refinery, which they say supplies the Russian army.
Grain Shipment Controversy and Kyiv’s Resolve
A ship carrying grain alleged to be stolen from Ukraine did not unload its cargo in Israel following strong condemnation from Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled a broader campaign against vessels involved in the illegal export of Ukrainian grain from occupied territories, vowing to target the “shadow grain fleet” in a similar manner to the “shadow oil fleet.” Following “a range of procedural measures taken by Ukraine,” the vessel, Panormitis, left Israeli territorial waters, according to Ukraine’s prosecutor general, Ruslan Kravchenko.
Israel’s Response and International Pressure
The company importing the grain to Israel was reportedly “forced to turn away” the vessel, according to statements cited by the Jerusalem Post. Kyiv continues to monitor the Panormitis and has warned against any further transactions involving it. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized that any entities dealing with stolen Ukrainian grain risk being implicated in a crime.
Attempted Attack on Russian General in Far East
An explosion in a closed military town in Russia’s far east targeted Maj Gen Azatbek Omurbekov, a commander known as the “Butcher of Bucha,” who led Russian troops during the occupation of Bucha, where Russian troops are accused of killing more than 400 civilians. While Omurbekov was unharmed, a subordinate was killed when a bomb detonated in the wrong location. Neither Russia nor Ukraine has commented on the incident. The EU has sanctioned Omurbekov over the Bucha massacre.
Japan’s Evolving Role in Supporting Ukraine
Japan is re-evaluating its defense export policies, potentially opening the door to supplying military equipment to Ukraine. Kyiv’s ambassador to Japan, Yurii Lutovinov, indicated that Tokyo might one day provide such assistance. Japanese drone firm Terra Drone is increasing its investment in Ukrainian defense technology through a partnership with WinnyLab, building on an existing collaboration with Amazing Drones in Kharkiv.
Limitations and Energy Dependencies
Despite this shift, Ukraine is not currently on the list of 17 countries with which Japan has defense equipment and technology transfer agreements. Arms sales are presently limited to those nations, including the US, Britain, and Australia. Japan’s energy ties with Russia, particularly its reliance on liquefied natural gas from the Sakhalin-2 project (accounting for almost 9% of its total LNG imports), complicate its ability to fully support Ukraine.
Potential for Broader European Support
Discussions are underway regarding Japan’s potential contribution to Europe’s Purl programme, which facilitates the purchase of US-made equipment for Ukraine. The Japanese government is expected to unveil a fresh defense strategy and procurement plan this year, focusing on increasing its capabilities in air, sea, and land drones – technologies Ukraine has utilized in its defense.
FAQ
- What is Ukraine doing about stolen grain? Ukraine is launching a systematic campaign against vessels carrying grain illegally exported by Russia from occupied areas.
- What was the target of the recent attacks inside Russia? Ukraine targeted oil refineries in Perm and Orsk.
- Is Japan providing weapons to Ukraine? Not yet, but Japan is re-evaluating its defense export policies and exploring potential avenues for support.
Pro Tip: Long-range strikes are a key component of Ukraine’s strategy to disrupt Russia’s war effort and degrade its logistical capabilities.
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