Ukraine strikes Russian oil refineries after Kushner, Witkoff visit Moscow and Kyiv

Key Points:

• Ukrainian drones targeted three Russian oil refineries in the Perm region, Tatarstan, and Ryazan, as well as drone launch sites in Kursk Oblast and a site in the Black Sea, following US special envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff’s recent visits to Moscow and Kyiv to revive peace talks.
• Some US officials, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have attributed rising US gas prices partly to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, citing these attacks as a significant factor alongside other refinery closures.
• The drone attacks came after a meeting between President Zelensky and the US envoys, which reportedly advanced peace negotiations and included agreements on a three-day ceasefire prior to the visits.
• The US delegation, including representatives from the National Security Council, State Department, and Treasury, met with both Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky, with additional participation from UK, German, and French national security advisors to discuss proposals for ending the war.
• Zelensky emphasized ongoing coordination with partners on air defense needs, technological cooperation, and preparations for winter, highlighting constructive proposals and continued diplomatic engagement ahead of future meetings.