Ukraine Envoy: US Displeased by Attacks on Russia Affecting Oil Interests

State Department voices concern over Ukrainian strikes on Russian port of Novorossiysk.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 10:25pm

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The United States State Department has expressed its displeasure over recent Ukrainian attacks on the Russian port of Novorossiysk, which have impacted American oil interests in the region. The attacks have disrupted shipping and operations at the strategically important Black Sea port.

Why it matters

Novorossiysk is a critical export hub for Russian oil and gas, and any disruptions there can have significant economic and geopolitical implications, including for US energy companies with investments in the area. The Biden administration has sought to balance support for Ukraine with avoiding direct confrontation with Russia.

The details

According to reports, Ukrainian forces have carried out several strikes on the port of Novorossiysk in recent months, using drones and other methods to target infrastructure and shipping. These attacks have temporarily halted operations and caused damage, affecting the flow of Russian energy exports that are important to global markets.

  • The attacks on Novorossiysk began in late 2025 and have continued into 2026.

The players

United States State Department

The federal agency responsible for conducting American foreign policy and international relations.

Ukraine

The Eastern European country that has been engaged in an ongoing conflict with Russia since 2014.

Russia

The neighboring country that controls the port of Novorossiysk and has been the target of Ukrainian attacks.

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What they’re saying

“We must express our concern over the attacks on Novorossiysk, which have disrupted critical energy infrastructure and shipping.”

— Spokesperson, U.S. State Department

The takeaway

This incident highlights the delicate balance the Biden administration must strike in supporting Ukraine while avoiding direct confrontation with Russia, which could have significant economic and geopolitical consequences for the United States.