Ukraine-Russia conflict escalates with fuel station strikes and Black Sea civilian deaths

During June and July, Russian forces intensified attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting more than 200 fuel stations with drones and aircraft. The campaign aimed to disrupt Ukraine's war economy, while Ukrainian forces continued long‑range drone strikes on Russian oil refineries and fuel depots. Simultaneously, fighting on the eastern front saw Russian troops advance in areas such as Rodynske, Kostiantynivka, Slovjansk and Kramatorsk, reducing the role of large infantry assaults in favor of precision drone and air strikes.

Russia reported that a Ukrainian drone attack on the Black Sea resort of Gelendzhik killed seven civilians, including three children, and injured around 40 others. Video footage verified by Reuters showed an explosion on a beach. Russian officials accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting civilians, a claim Kyiv denied, stating it does not intentionally attack civilian sites.