Ukraine war briefing: Kyiv to increase oil refinery attacks because of Moscow’s winter strategy, Zelenskyy says

Key Points:

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to intensify attacks on Russian oil refineries in response to Moscow’s new doctrine targeting civilian infrastructure to force residents to abandon Kyiv and other cities, but emphasized Ukraine will avoid targeting civilian objects.
• Ukraine’s intelligence revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin authorized broader military attacks on civilian infrastructure such as roads, schools, and hospitals to pressure population displacement ahead of winter.
• Ukraine’s counteroffensive in the Donbas region has reclaimed approximately 140 sq km, posing a setback to Russia’s goal of complete control before peace negotiations; Ukraine is also enhancing air defense and missile capabilities to combat Russian drone attacks.
• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv with defense industry CEOs to reaffirm support for Ukraine amid increased Russian attacks, warning that unchecked Russian aggression could eventually threaten Europe.
• Latvia’s recent parliamentary elections favored the pro-Ukraine United List party, signaling continued support for Ukraine and NATO, while also seeing gains by populist parties; the government remains committed to high defense spending and anti-drone measures amid concerns over Russian hybrid threats.