August M
Ukrainian forces say they have carried out new long-range attacks on Russian energy and military targets, signalling an expanded campaign aimed at weakening Moscow’s ability to sustain the war.
The reported strikes stretch from occupied Ukrainian territory to the Caspian Sea, underscoring Kyiv’s growing reach.
Platforms hit offshore
According to the Kyiv Independent, Ukraine’s General Staff said three Russian drilling platforms operated by Lukoil were struck in the Caspian Sea on Jan. 11.
The platforms were identified as the V. Filanovsky, Yuri Korchagin and Valery Graifer installations, all used for oil and gas extraction.
“Direct hits have been recorded. The extent of the damage is being assessed,” the military said in a statement.
Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces said the platforms supply fuel to the Russian army and confirmed they carried out the strikes overnight. Video footage of the alleged attacks was also released.
Military targets struck
In a separate operation, Ukrainian forces reported hitting a Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile system in the Russian-occupied parts of Luhansk Oblast, along with other military assets.
The General Staff also said a warehouse and technical support unit belonging to Russia’s 49th Combined Arms Army were struck near the town of Novotroitske in occupied Kherson Oblast.
That army group is described by Ukraine as the main Russian force operating in the region.
The Kyiv Independent noted it was unable to independently verify the military’s claims.
Energy and the war
Oil and gas exports account for a large share of Russia’s federal budget and are seen by Kyiv as critical to funding the war effort.
Ukrainian officials have repeatedly said energy infrastructure linked to the military is a legitimate target.
Throughout 2025, Ukraine has stepped up attacks on oil facilities inside Russia and in Russian-occupied territories, relying heavily on domestically produced drones to reach distant sites.
Earlier Caspian attack
The latest strikes follow similar operations in the Caspian Sea last month. On Dec. 19, Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces said they used drones to hit a Russian patrol ship and an oil platform in the same region.
That earlier attack also targeted an installation at the Filanovsky oil and gas field, highlighting a sustained focus on offshore energy assets linked to Russia’s military supply chains.
Sources: Kyiv Independent, Ukrainian General Staff
