Deep Impact

Ukraine has struck Russia's largest oil refinery in a strike reported to reach some 2,500 kilometres from Ukrainian territory, while Ukrainian forces also repelled a Russian offensive. Reports claim significant damage to refining capacity, with observers weighing the impact on Russia's fuel supplies and export revenues. Commentators are debating whether the deep strike marks a shift in Ukraine's long-range capabilities.

Ukraine has resumed its campaign of attacks on Russian oil refineries, renewing a strategy aimed at cutting into Russia's fuel production and export revenues. The renewed strikes signal a return to long-range drone operations against energy infrastructure deep inside Russia, a tactic that previously disrupted fuel supplies and drew attention to Ukraine's growing strike capabilities.

The United States stayed the United Nations' biggest funder in 2025, even after making substantial cuts to its contributions. Analysts note that despite Washington trimming its financial support, no other member state came close to matching its level of funding, leaving the UN still heavily reliant on American money.