NEW: Ukrainian forces conducted a large-scale strike against Russia on the night of June 17 to 18, heavily targeting Moscow City and striking the Moscow Oil Refinery for the second time in two days.
Russian milbloggers responded to the strikes on Moscow City by remarking on the domestic realities of the war and expressing concerns about Russian air defenses and censorship.
Repeated Ukrainian strikes against heavily defended Russian deep rear areas like Moscow City continue to expose Russia’s weaknesses and inability to defend its domestic populace.
The Kremlin is already setting conditions to weaponize claims of a recent alleged Ukrainian strike on a civilian passenger bus in Russia to justify its next massive long-range strike package against Ukraine.
Russia is reportedly importing gasoline from unspecified Asian countries to respond to domestic shortages that are likely to worsen as the summer continues.
Ukraine’s European allies continue to provide military aid to Ukraine, including via the purchase of US-produced weapons.
Russian forces recently marginally advanced in the Slovyansk direction.
Russian forces launched seven Iskander-M ballistic missiles/S-400 air defense missiles and 239 drones against Ukraine overnight.