Ukraine launched its largest drone attack on Moscow in two years, striking a major oil refinery and injuring 16 civilians. The assault, involving approximately 200 drones, is part of a strategy to weaken Russia's energy income. The strike was retaliation for Russia's recent bombardment of a historic monastery in Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is using the attack to intensify his call for military support at a NATO summit in Ankara. He is specifically seeking commitments for additional Patriot air defense systems. The escalation increases pressure on NATO allies to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Market observers are monitoring NATO's response and any pledged Russian retaliation, such as "massive group strikes," for signs of further escalation between the bloc and Moscow.