The scene has become commonplace as Russia multiplies its strikes against the country's logistics infrastructure.Since July, Moscow has hit more than 200 petrol stations across, according to Ukrainian media. Most are in the east and northeast along logistics routes leading to the front.Looking at a car riddled with shrapnel holes and stretch of twisted metal sheets, David Akopyan was wandering among the ruins of what was once his workplace.A few minutes before the strike, the 35-year-old attendant had closed the station because of the risk of bombardment."I put up the barrier tape, cleared everyone out, and had barely reached my car when I heard the whistle of the missile," he told AFP, pointing to a small building ripped open by the blast. Around him, the concrete blocks meant to shield the premises that proved useless.Peppered with shrapnel and emerging out of rubble, a sign continues to display the price of unleaded petrol."I think we only have two or three stations left in town," Akopyan said, looking somewhat lost.Since launching its full-scale invasion in 2022, Russia has regularly targeted Ukraine's energy capabilities -- thermal power plants, gas distribution and pipelines.But in recent months it is regular petrol stations that have been in Moscow's sights.'As difficult as possible'With the advent of drones, the two countries are increasingly targeting each other's military logistics, particularly roads and supply hubs.But the Russian attacks on roadside petrol stations "have no impact whatsoever" on the military since the "defence ministry has its own fuel supply system," Ukrainian energy analyst Sergiy Kuiun told AFP
'To make the civilians leave': Russia pummels Ukraine's petrol stations
A streak across the sky, then a muffled blast. Near Izyum in eastern Ukraine, another petrol station has just been blown to pieces.







