Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged that Ukraine’s drone campaign targeting Russian oil refineries and energy infrastructure is having an impact on the country’s economy.
Speaking earlier today at a meeting of Russia’s Council for Strategic Development and National Projects in Moscow, Putin said Russia’s economic performance remained positive overall but acknowledged that several factors were weighing on economic activity.
“Statistical data show that economic performance, although modest overall, remains positive,” Putin said.
He added that the pace of economic activity was being affected by a range of factors, including external pressure and what he described as “terrorist attacks” against industrial and infrastructure facilities.
“Of course, such attacks do not and cannot result in critical consequences. However, they cause us damage. This is clear, and we fully recognize and understand it,” Putin said.
Ukraine has increasingly used long-range drones to target Russian oil refineries, fuel depots and other energy infrastructure, seeking to disrupt Moscow’s ability to generate revenue and support its war effort.
Putin’s remarks represent a notable acknowledgment of the economic impact of the attacks, even as he sought to downplay the broader consequences for Russia’s economy.
