Moscow says it will step up strikes on Ukraine after Kyiv vows to hit Russian oil refineries
Russia's announcement came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country would “have to respond in any way we can” to Russian attacks.
Moscow has vowed to intensify its attacks on military and industrial targets in Ukraine, following Ukraine's pledge to retaliate against Russian strikes on their oil refineries. Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson stated this on Telegram, blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the escalation, claiming he bears "full personal and political responsibility."
Ukrainian President responded, explaining that Ukraine must retaliate against Russian attacks on their energy infrastructure, specifically targeting oil refineries to disrupt the funds pouring into the ongoing war. Russian government also accused Kyiv of disrupting elections through terrorist strikes on civilians in Russian territory.
On the same day, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz unexpectedly visited Kyiv, showing support for Ukraine. Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that Russia had struck the North Bridge in the city. Meanwhile, Russian foreign ministry warned against foreign visitors and diplomats to leave Kyiv. Germany pledged a €1 billion military aid package, including €350 million for strengthening the Ukrainian power grid under attack, to Chancellor Merz.
Ukrainian President and Chancellor Merz visited Kyiv's National Academy of Sciences, site of a recent Russian drone attack that killed two and injured seven others.
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