Putin Says Ukraine’s Attacks on Russian Infrastructure Seek Destabilisation
Escalation of Attacks and Impact on Russian Society
Putin's Statement on Ukrainian Attacks
MOSCOW, June 23 (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Ukraine was attacking civilian infrastructure in Russia in an attempt to destabilise society.
Increase in Strikes on Oil Refineries
Ukraine's attacks on oil refineries have doubled since the start of 2026, leading to long lines and higher prices for gasoline in some regions. Kyiv has said its aim is to sap a key source of Russia's war funds and show Russians the conflict is no longer distant.
Putin Addresses Military Graduates
Speaking to graduates of military and security institutions, Putin made his first remarks on the attacks since Ukrainian drones hit a Moscow refinery last week.
Putin’s Televised Remarks
"Strikes against civilian infrastructure — what are they aimed at? To destabilise society, amid such a massive onslaught, when the entire West is working for them and these drones are coming in huge numbers, to create a sense of uncertainty about the actions of the Russian armed forces," he said at the televised meeting.
Military Developments in Donetsk Region
He also said Russian troops were close to taking control of Kostiantynivka, the southern anchor of the so-called "fortress belt" in the Donetsk region which Moscow has demanded Kyiv relinquish.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Reuters, Writing by Alessandra Prentice; Editing by Gleb Bryanski)
