Ukraine war briefing: Putin ex... Note

Ukraine war briefing: Putin expects US negotiators in Moscow; fuel rationing in Siberia as crisis bites

President Putin expects to host US representatives in Moscow after the current Middle East crisis involving Iran eases. He stated Russia is ready to continue negotiations with the US, referencing past meetings. Putin acknowledged a fuel shortage in Russia, attributing it to Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure. He described the shortage as not critical but a problem that requires improved air defenses and fuel protection, especially in Crimea. To address spreading fuel shortages, the Irkutsk region governor imposed a 50-liter purchase limit at state-run outlets. Russia's Deputy Prime Minister is reviewing fuel export agreements to ensure domestic needs are met. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy claimed responsibility for drone strikes on two Russian oil refineries over the weekend, stating these attacks reduce resources for the Russian military. One person died and another was injured in an attack on a refinery in the Krasnodar region. Zelenskyy also claimed an overnight strike hit a refinery in the Yaroslavl region, leading to temporary road closures. Meanwhile, a Russian attack in Zaporizhzhia killed two and injured sixteen, including children. In Russia's Belgorod region, Ukrainian drone strikes killed one and injured another. Russia's Defense Ministry reported shooting down numerous Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine stated it downed most of the Russian drones and missiles launched overnight.