The SBU and SSO of the Armed Forces of Ukraine carried out a repeated drone attack on the gas processing complex in the Russian port of Ust-Luga. This is the second such operation this year, aimed at limiting Moscow's revenues from energy trade.
President Zelenskyy congratulated Ukrainians on Independence Day, emphasizing that the strength of the state is formed by the daily work and courage of every citizen. He stressed that Ukraine resolutely responds to aggression, defending its sovereignty.
On August 24, unknown UAVs attacked an oil refinery in Syzran and the port of Ust-Luga. A fire was reported at the NOVATEK terminal, with no casualties.
Residents of Stary Oskol in the Belgorod region reported at least five explosions in the sky and the flight of 'Lyutyi' type drones. Windows in houses shook and car alarms went off in several districts due to the explosions.
The Criminal Service of the Lithuanian Customs Department uncovered a scheme to circumvent sanctions against Russia, organized by 11 individuals. A company from Kaunas supplied water treatment equipment to Russian oil enterprises through Portugal, Bulgaria, and Turkey.
The EU and the US have approved a framework trade agreement. A 15% tax will apply to almost all European goods going to the US, while Europe will abolish import tariffs on American products and purchase chips, energy carriers, and military equipment.
Russia estimated the minimum repair time for the damaged Druzhba oil pipeline at five days after the Ukrainian strike on August 21. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó discussed the situation with Russian Deputy Energy Minister Pavel Sorokin.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban appealed to Donald Trump for help regarding the shelling of the "Druzhba" oil pipeline by Ukrainians. Trump responded that he was "very angry" and advised Orban to talk to Slovakia.
European natural gas prices are rising as optimism for an end to Russia's war against Ukraine wanes. This is happening amid the difficulty of reaching a peace agreement and preparations for the upcoming heating season.
Hungary and Slovakia appealed to the European Commission due to interruptions in Russian oil supplies via the "Druzhba" pipeline. The countries demand security guarantees for supplies, citing EU promises.
Hungary stopped receiving Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline after the third strike in a short period.
An attack by unknown drones on the "Druzhba" oil pipeline was recorded in the Bryansk region. Previously, the oil pumping station in the city of Unecha was damaged.
The US Treasury Department has imposed new sanctions against Iran, targeting a network of companies and vessels transporting Iranian oil. The sanctions target Greek national Antonios Margaritis and his network, which facilitated illegal oil exports.
The fuel crisis is deepening in the regions of the Russian Federation, leading to restrictions on gasoline sales in the regions. The Russian authorities are urgently purchasing fuel from Belarus to meet demand.
The European Union plans to purchase $750 billion worth of oil and nuclear products from the US by 2028, and will also allocate $40 billion for AI chips. The EU will abolish tariffs on US industrial goods and increase defense procurement.
Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Tibet, calling for inter-ethnic unity. This is his second visit to the region as president.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed the damage to the Novoshakhtinsk oil products plant in the Rostov region. A UAV warehouse, a logistics hub in Donetsk, and an oil depot in the Voronezh region were also hit.
India and Russia intend to increase trade to $100 billion in five years. This is a response to trade pressure from the United States.
Brent crude futures rose to $67. 11 per barrel, and WTI to $63. The increase is driven by high demand in the US and uncertainty regarding the war in Ukraine.
Soldiers of the 5th Separate Assault Kyiv Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine hit an enemy tank, destroyed a quad bike, a cannon, and enemy infantry. The episodes took place in the Kramatorsk direction.
On the night of August 21, UAVs attacked Russia's Rostov region. A large-scale fire is reported at the Novoshakhtinsk Oil Products Plant.
Russia is preparing a new budget with tax increases and cuts in civilian spending due to record defense expenditures and declining oil and gas revenues. Economists warn of a recession risk, as over 40% of Russia's funds are directed towards the war against Ukraine.
Indian state-owned oil refineries have resumed purchases of Russian Urals oil after a short break. This comes despite criticism from American officials and threats of sanctions.
The Defense Forces of Southern Ukraine confirmed the destruction of a Russian echelon with fuel in the Zaporizhzhia region. The enemy was left without fuel and railway connection between Urozhaine and Tokmak.
Russia expects to retain India as a stable oil client, offering discounts of about 5% off the market price. The US is increasing pressure on India over its purchases of Russian oil, imposing duties and accusing it of supporting "Putin's war."
An article by Ihor Harbaruk, Vice President of the "Ukrainian International Institute of Recovery", expert of the NGO "Economic Discussion Club".
Oil supplies to Slovakia via the Druzhba pipeline have been restored after interruptions caused by damage on Russian territory. The Slovak Minister of Economy expects minimal impact on the total volume of supplies for the month.
Global oil prices remained largely unchanged, as investors monitor peace talks surrounding Ukraine, which could impact the energy market. Brent and WTI futures saw slight gains, while the market remains uncertain due to the unlikelihood of a swift resolution to the conflict.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused India of profiting from Russian oil purchases during the war in Ukraine. He noted that the share of Russian oil in India's imports increased from less than 1% to 42%.
The supply of Russian oil to Hungary via the Druzhba pipeline has been restored after the night attack on August 18. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó expressed concern about new strikes on critical infrastructure.
