Ukraine Strikes Major Russian Oil Refinery in Drone Attack

Ukrainian Drone Attack Targets Key Russian Energy Infrastructure

Ukrainian forces have successfully targeted one of Russia's largest oil refineries in a significant drone strike operation. The Kirishi oil refinery, located approximately 100 kilometers southeast of St. Petersburg in the Leningrad region, sustained substantial damage after being hit by multiple drones.

Massive Fire and Production Impact

Social media footage showed massive flames engulfing the refinery complex following the attack. Local authorities confirmed that the fire has since been extinguished, but the extent of the damage remains under assessment. The Kirishi refinery, with a production capacity of 355,000 barrels per day, represents 6.4% of Russia's total oil production capacity.

"The attack was carried out by debris from one of three drones that were shot down," stated regional governor Alexander Drozdenko, confirming no casualties in the incident.

Strategic Energy Target

The Kirishi-2 refinery, opened in 2017, is Russia's first residual oil high conversion facility and a critical component of the country's energy infrastructure. According to industry experts, the refinery produces approximately 11% of Russia's gasoline, 6.4% of its diesel fuel, and 7.4% of aviation fuel.

Escalating Drone Warfare

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu claimed that Russian forces shot down 361 Ukrainian drones over the past 24 hours, with 80 intercepted overnight. This attack represents the latest in a series of Ukrainian strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure since the invasion began 3.5 years ago.

Ukrainian strategy has focused on disrupting Russia's military fuel supply and targeting one of Moscow's primary revenue sources. The ongoing campaign against energy facilities has significantly impacted Russia's refining capacity and export capabilities.