Russia will temporarily seize commercial infrastructure deemed critical but left unprotected against Ukrainian drone strikes, under a decree signed by President Vladimir Putin. The move follows earlier authorization for private firms to buy air defenses, though supply shortages remain unclear. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov cited insufficient anti-drone measures by business owners as justification for the policy.
The decree also threatens takeover of facilities that fail to repair damage promptly after attacks. Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries and logistics hubs have crippled oil exports, with overseas crude flows dropping to 3.46 million barrels per day in late August. Recent attacks on the Afipsky Refinery killed two and damaged nearby homes, while online retailer Ozon reported a nearly 30% share plunge after drone strikes on its facilities.
Meanwhile, U.S. CIA Director John Ratcliffe made a surprise visit to Moscow, coinciding with requests from Washington for Kyiv to avoid strikes on key Russian regions during the trip. Ukrainian forces continue limited advances in the south while Russian pressure intensifies in Donetsk.
Zelensky confirmed new air defense systems, including Crotale interceptors and Patriot missiles, alongside British SCALP production pledges.
