Ukraine is defying the US over strikes on Russian oil refineries. Experts say it's a necessary risk.

Mon, 04/29/2024 - 09:59

Video taken through a windshield shows a plume of fire and smoke against a darkening sky at energy facilities after a Ukraine-launched drone attack in Yartsevo, Smolensk region, Russia in this still image from social media video released April 24, 2024 — A Russian energy facility after a drone attack in Smolensk, Russia, in a still from a video released April 24, 2024.
Social Media/Reuters

Ukraine continues to target Russian energy facilities despite reported White House objections.
The attacks are an attempt to weaken Russia's economy, straining its primary foreign currency source.
Strategists argue that consistent pressure on Russia's energy sector could have a long-term impact.

Four days after the US voted to sign off a long-awaited $61 billion in aid, Ukraine did the one thing that the White House has reportedly been asking it not to do: It struck another oil facility on Russian soil.