American officials have reportedly cautioned Ukraine against continuing its drone strikes on Russian oil refineries. These warnings come as concerns grow over the potential impact on global oil prices and risks of Russian retaliation, according to a March 22 report by the Financial Times (FT), which references unnamed figures within Ukraine’s military intelligence and Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
Recent efforts by Ukrainian forces have involved a series of drone assaults aimed at disrupting Russia’s oil operations, which have struck oil refinery targets deep within Russian borders.
With a decrease in foreign military support, including stalled U.S. funding, Ukraine has been increasingly relying on its homegrown attack capabilities.
The FT’s sources indicate that there is U.S. concern over potential Russian retaliatory strikes on Western energy infrastructure, which could cause a surge in global energy costs.
On the other hand, Russia’s war efforts are largely financed by its energy export revenues, which have been impacted by the recent Ukrainian attacks on their refineries.
U.S. President Joe Biden has consistently expressed support for Ukraine and determination to prevent a Russian triumph. However, with a reelection campaign ahead, domestic politics may also be a factor in this counsel.
Bob McNally, president of the energy consultancy Rapidan Energy and a former energy advisor at the White House, commented to the FT that the U.S.’s cautionary stance might have electoral implications.
“The thing that scares an incumbent American president more than anything is a spike in gas prices in a voting year,” McNally remarked.
Ukrainian drones target Russian oil refineries one after another
Ukraine confronts the daunting task of halting Moscow’s momentum to sufficiently rotate troops, restock supplies, and bolster defenses. Currently, the confrontation unfolds in the airspace over Russia, with Ukrainian drones conducting successive strikes.
FAQs
Why does the US want Ukraine to stop attacking Russian oil refineries?
The US is concerned about global oil prices potentially rising and the risk of Russian retaliation that could target Western energy infrastructure, leading to higher energy prices globally.
What has Ukraine been using to strike deep inside Russian territory?
Ukraine has been using domestically produced drones to launch a series of strikes against Russian oil refineries.
Is the US still supporting Ukraine militarily?
While the US continues to express political support for Ukraine, there has been a noted decrease in foreign military aid, particularly with stalled funding from the US.
What impact have Ukrainian attacks had on Russia?
The attacks on Russian refineries have disrupted Russia’s oil operations, which are crucial for financing its war efforts.
Conclusion
The dynamic between the US and Ukraine highlights a complex interplay of strategy, geopolitical stability, and domestic politics. As Ukraine grapples with its defensive maneuvers against Russian aggression, the guidance from its ally reflects both a concern for global economic stability and the strategic considerations of electoral politics. The bilateral relationship continues to evolve as both nations navigate the high stakes of conflict and the broader repercussions for the international community.
Note: The above article is based on information by TheUBJ, which in turn is rewritten from the original source, and does not claim the original content as its own. For more information, you can access the original piece at https://kyivindependent.com/ft-us-reportedly-tells-ukraine-to-stop-striking-russian-oil-refineries/.