19/06/2026 13:37 - Internacionales
Drone de combate volando sobre una refinería de petróleo con columnas de humo y fuego, cielo nocturno con destellos, ambiente de conflicto bélico moderno
Ukraine launched on June 18, 2026 the most significant drone assault on Moscow since the conflict began. According to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, 194 drones were shot down near the capital, while Russia's Ministry of Defense reported 555 drones intercepted nationwide.
The primary target was the MNPZ oil refinery in Kapotnia, a strategic facility that supplies 40% of gasoline and 50% of diesel fuel for the Moscow region. This marked the second attack on this refinery within the same week, demonstrating Ukraine's growing long-range strike capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a defiant statement: "If Ukraine burns, Moscow will burn too". This came in response to the Russian missile strike on the Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv, a historic Orthodox temple of immense cultural and religious significance dating back to the 11th century.
Zelensky is currently in Brussels, working to secure additional military support from European allies and advancing Ukraine's path toward European Union integration.
The Moscow Oil Refinery (MNPZ) located in Kapotnia is one of Russia's most critical fuel production facilities. Processing approximately 12 million tons of oil annually, it serves as the primary supplier of gasoline and diesel for Moscow and surrounding regions. Disruption to this facility has significant implications for transportation, military logistics, and civilian life in the Russian capital.
The Dormition Cathedral (Cathedral of the Assumption) in Kyiv is one of Ukraine's most sacred historical monuments. Originally built in the 11th century during the reign of Grand Prince Yaroslav the Wise, it has survived invasions, wars, and Soviet-era persecution. The cathedral stands as a powerful symbol of Ukrainian national identity and Orthodox Christian heritage. Its bombing represents not just a military target, but an attack on Ukrainian cultural memory.
The conflict shows no signs of de-escalation. While Ukraine continues developing its long-range drone capabilities, Russia maintains its offensive with ballistic missiles and artillery strikes on Ukrainian territory. The international community watches with growing concern as both sides intensify military operations. European leaders meeting in Brussels are expected to discuss additional defense packages for Ukraine in the coming days.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
