Ukraine resumes drone strikes on Russian refineries; Moscow to extend diesel export ban

Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil refineries resumed after a period of relative calm, hitting three refineries and one gas-chemical complex, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told reporters in Moscow.

Novak said one plant sustained minor damage but that air-defence systems largely held. "We had a break for some time, but today attacks on refineries have resumed, and our enterprises are working on defense," he said.

Separately, Novak confirmed the Russian government is drafting a decree to extend its ban on diesel exports until the end of January 2027 — effectively a three-month extension. Exceptions for supplies to global markets will be maintained, as under the current arrangement.

On planned volumes, Russia expects to export 510,000 tons of diesel in October, with November shipments potentially reaching 2.15 million tons. Novak said winter-grade diesel accumulation within the domestic system is sufficient and in line with refinery production schedules. Plans for early next year will depend on how the situation develops.