Ukrainian Intelligence Disables Key Russian Fuel Artery
Ukraine's military intelligence, known as the Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR), announced a successful operation on October 31, 2025, that struck and disabled a critical Russian military fuel pipeline in Moscow Oblast. The operation, which reportedly destroyed all three major fuel lines of the system simultaneously, is expected to significantly impact Russian military logistics.
The targeted infrastructure, identified as the 'Koltsevoy' (Ring) pipeline, is a 400-kilometer (250 miles) long network crucial for supplying the Russian armed forces. According to HUR, the strike occurred near the Ramensky district, south-east of Moscow.
Details of the 'Koltsevoy' Pipeline and Operational Impact
The 'Koltsevoy' pipeline served as a vital link, transporting various fuels from refineries in Ryazan, Nizhny Novgorod, and Moscow. Its annual capacity was substantial, capable of moving:
- Up to 3 million tons of jet fuel
- Up to 2.8 million tons of diesel
- Up to 1.6 million tons of gasoline
HUR emphasized that despite the presence of anti-drone nets and armed security at the site, the operation successfully rendered the pipeline infrastructure inoperable. This action is described by Ukrainian intelligence as a 'serious blow' to Russia's military capabilities and its economy within Moscow Oblast.
Ukrainian Statements and Russian Response
Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's HUR, was quoted stating that 'Our strikes have had more impact than the sanctions,' and that 'It's just a mathematical truth. We caused much greater damage to the Russian Federation through direct action than any economic levers of influence that had been introduced on them until now.'
The reported strike coincided with a broader Ukrainian drone assault on Russian territory. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted 98 drones overnight across 10 regions, including 11 over Moscow Oblast, with six reportedly heading towards the capital. Local reports indicated power outages in Zhukovsky near Moscow, which authorities attributed to 'automatic equipment shutdowns,' and drone debris falling in Tula.
Broader Context of Strikes on Russian Infrastructure
This incident is part of Ukraine's ongoing strategy to target Russia's military infrastructure and logistics. Ukrainian officials have consistently highlighted the importance of these deep strikes in undermining Russia's war efforts. The effectiveness of such operations is seen as a crucial element in Ukraine's defense strategy.
6 Comments
Africa
A huge blow to Russia's war machine. Morale booster for Ukraine.
Coccinella
Undermining Russian logistics is a clear military objective, but the long-term effectiveness of such attacks against a large economy remains to be seen. Russia has shown resilience before.
Habibi
Finally, some real strategic hits. Cripple their logistics!
Ongania
Hitting a fuel pipeline directly affects Russia's military capability, which is a clear win for Ukraine. However, the potential for civilian casualties or retaliatory strikes can't be ignored.
Fuerza
Budanov is right, direct action works. Keep up the pressure!
Donatello
This operation demonstrates Ukraine's growing capabilities to strike deep behind enemy lines, which is impressive. Still, the article also mentions Russia's drone interceptions, showing their defenses are not entirely absent.