Is Russia’s fuel crisis a temporary squeeze or the collapse of an industry? Two leading economists debated the question, unable to agree on how much refining capacity is left.

Ukraine has intensified its drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, targeting key facilities in the Leningrad region and beyond. The latest attacks include strikes on the Ust-Luga port, the Kirishi Oil Refinery, and the Novatek plant near St. These incidents have raised questions about the resilience of Russia's fuel industry. The strikes have caused significant disruptions, with fires breaking out at multiple locations. The Ust-Luga port fire, in particular, has drawn attention due to its strategic importance.

The Kyiv Independent and Ukrinform confirmed the drone strikes, while the Kyiv Post noted that this is the eighth such attack this year. The Moscow Times and Bloomberg.com reported on the fire at Ust-Luga, with Bloomberg specifying that the fire was extinguished. There is disagreement among economists regarding the impact of these strikes on Russia's fuel industry. Meduza covered a debate between two leading economists who could not agree on the remaining refining capacity. This uncertainty is compounded by the lack of detailed information on the extent of the damage and the industry's ability to recover.

The full extent of the damage to Russia's oil infrastructure and the long-term implications for its fuel industry are still unknown. The debate among economists underscores the uncertainty surrounding Russia's refining capacity. Additionally, the frequency and success of Ukrainian drone strikes suggest a sustained campaign targeting Russian energy assets.