Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of increased attacks on Russian oil refineries, responding to what he claims is a new Russian strategy to target civilian infrastructure. This comes as Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed a missile and drone strike on Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil company, Aramco, near its capital Riyadh on Sunday, October 4, 2026. These developments coincide with G7 nations agreeing to release strategic oil reserves to address global energy supply concerns.
Ukraine Targets Russian Energy
Zelensky stated in an interview with Reuters that Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a “new doctrine” allowing attacks on civilian infrastructure, including transport, logistics, roads, schools, and hospitals. Ukrainian intelligence documents reportedly show this strategy aims to force people out of Kyiv and other cities. In response, Ukraine is preparing to strike Russia’s energy sector, particularly oil refineries, which Zelensky said provide funds for the war.
Ukraine confirmed large-scale attacks on Russian oil refineries and defense industries on September 25 and September 28, 2026. Russia, meanwhile, has warned foreign citizens to leave Kyiv and stated it will continue systematic attacks on its declared targets, preparing for major strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure this winter. Last winter, Russian attacks caused widespread power and heat outages across Ukraine.
To counter Russian aggression, Ukraine is developing long-range missiles, including the FP-9, which it claims can strike Moscow. To bolster its air defense, Ukraine is enhancing electronic jamming capabilities and developing cheaper, smaller air defense missiles and new interceptor drones, with two models showing approximately 30% success in testing. Ukraine has also secured additional European financial aid for drone procurement next year.
Houthi Attack on Saudi Aramco
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed the group launched ballistic missiles and drones at an Aramco oil refinery south of Riyadh on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Saree stated the attack was in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes in Yemen’s capital Sana’a and other Houthi-controlled areas, which he said saw approximately 60 airstrikes in the last 24 hours.
Smoke was observed near the refinery, and firefighters were deployed, but Saudi officials or Aramco have not yet confirmed the attack.
Global Energy Market Response
Concerns about global energy supply have risen amid the attacks on oil infrastructure. US President Donald Trump had previously urged Ukraine to halt strikes on Russian oil facilities, citing rising global diesel prices. In response to the global energy supply crisis and increasing fuel costs, G7 nations agreed on October 3, 2026, to release 100 million barrels of crude oil and diesel from their strategic reserves over four months. This decision followed Trump’s indication of restricting US diesel exports due to domestic shortages.
Stalled Peace Efforts and Ukraine’s Defense
The US administration is attempting to restart peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Trilateral discussions involving US, Russian, and Ukrainian officials in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on January 24-25, 2026, concluded without concrete success, though both sides expressed openness to further dialogue.
Zelensky stated he sees no signs of Russia being serious about peace talks. He expressed readiness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for peace discussions at the G20 summit in Miami in December but cautioned the US against normalizing relations with Russia until the war ends, emphasizing that “peace is more important than any economy.”
