Everyday Russians have been increasingly reporting fuel shortages as Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries deep in Russia hit production. Videos posted on social media show long queues and heated confrontations in front of gas stations.
The strikes deep in Russian territory illustrate Ukraine’s bourgeoning defense industry, with drones and other unmanned vehicles playing a key role. Kyiv’s domestically produced Flamingo missile system has a range of 3,000 kilometers.
Zelenskyy also announced the creation of a team of Joint Rapid Response Forces. These will combine drones, artillery and other capabilities to “ensure the fastest possible response on the front” in the war with Russia.
“It also must be a modern, technology-driven assault force,” he said.