In April 2026, the number of Ukrainian drone attacks on the oil infrastructure of the Russian Federation reached the highest level in the last four months. According to estimates based on public statements from both sides, at least 21 strikes targeting oil refineries, maritime facilities, export terminals, and Russia’s pipeline infrastructure were recorded this month alone.
This is reported by Finway
Significant Decrease in Oil Processing Volumes in Russia
These attacks have been particularly impactful for Russia’s oil refining sector: in April, there were no fewer than nine strikes specifically on these facilities, marking the highest monthly figure since the beginning of the year. According to estimates from the analytical company OilX, such strikes led to a reduction in the average processing at Russian oil refineries to 4.69 million barrels per day. This level is the lowest since December 2009. The decline in crude oil processing rates creates additional pressure on the domestic market in Russia, where demand traditionally rises in spring, and also affects the global market for petroleum products.
Strategy of Repeated Attacks and Its Consequences
In April, Ukraine returned to the tactic of repeated strikes on specific Russian oil refineries. This approach increases the damage to key facilities, significantly complicating their rapid recovery. Additionally, Ukrainian drones intensified strikes on the network of Russian pipelines — at least five pumping stations were targeted throughout the month.
“According to data collected by Bloomberg based on public statements from both countries, at least 21 strikes were carried out by Ukraine against Russian oil refineries, maritime facilities, including export terminals and pipeline infrastructure in April.”
It was also reported that drones from the Special Operations Center ‘Alpha’ of the Security Service of Ukraine struck the ‘Lukoil-Permneftorgsintez’ oil refinery, located more than 1500 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Thus, Ukrainian attacks in April not only intensified economic pressure on the Russian oil industry but also demonstrated the ability to strike at significant distances.