Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described Russian oil refineries as peaceful infrastructure, asserting that the reduction of Russian petroleum products in international exports affects global markets. He did not mention that these facilities are integral to funding the Kremlin’s military efforts.
Just a day prior, Peskov acknowledged that Russia’s actions in Ukraine target not only military sites but also various civilian structures.
In light of Trump’s statements, Peskov attempted to assert that Russian forces are making progress on the front lines, a claim that lacks evidence. He dismissed the notion that Ukraine possesses the capability to withstand Russian pressure as erroneous. Conversely, a report by the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) on September 7 indicated that Russia is unlikely to meet its primary objective of seizing the Donbas region by the end of the year. Analysts noted the current slow pace of Russian advances, particularly in the strategically important Donetsk area, concluding that the Russian military may not capture Donetsk before 2032, if at all.
Context
- Since the start of 2024, Ukraine has intensified its attacks on oil and gas facilities within Russia, with President Zelensky stating that the country has no choice but to retaliate against Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
- On September 13, Trump remarked that Zelensky should cease destroying diesel fuel in Russia, claiming it harms the world.
