A poll on the next Russian refinery to be targeted by drone strikes has appeared in the Diia app
Illustration by Midjourney
A new poll has appeared on the Diia app, inviting citizens to express their opinion on the next Russian oil refinery to be attacked by GUR and SBU drones.
Answer options:
- Lukoil refinery in Ryazan
- Rosneft refinery in Tuapse
- Gazprom Neft refinery in Omsk
- Other (you can enter your own option)
The survey will run until 7 April 2023. Its results will determine which Russian refinery will be the next target for Ukrainian drones.
Ukrainians' response to the survey
The Diia survey has provoked a mixed reaction in Ukrainian society. Some people believe that it gives Ukrainians the opportunity to take part in the fight against Russia and contribute to victory. Others are concerned that such actions could lead to an escalation of the conflict and new casualties. Or maybe these polls are "out of time" and the Ukrainian Defence Forces should be allowed to determine their own strategy.
Why is Ukraine striking Russian oil refineries?
Ukraine strikes at Russian oil refineries for several reasons:
- Reducing the supply of fuel for the Russian army: Oil refineries are key to the production of petrol, diesel and other fuels used by the Russian army to fight its war effort. By striking the refineries, Ukraine could make it much more difficult and expensive for Russian troops to supply fuel, which could negatively affect their combat capability.
- Economic damage: Oil refineries are an important part of the Russian economy, and their damage or destruction could lead to significant economic losses for Russia. This could put additional pressure on the Russian government to seek ways to end the war.
- Political pressure: Strikes on the refinery could also have a political impact, as they demonstrate that Ukraine is capable of striking strategic Russian targets, even if they are far from the front line. This could boost Ukrainian morale and force Russia to rethink its strategy for the war.
- Retaliation: Russia strikes at Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, hospitals and schools. The strikes on the refinery can be seen as an act of retaliation for these crimes.
It is important to note that these strikes may result in fuel supply disruptions, which could lead to higher prices and a deterioration of the economic situation in Russia.
Position of the authorities
Ukrainian officials have not yet commented on the poll by Diia. However, an employee of the Office of the President of Ukraine, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression, and all methods of fighting the enemy are justified.