Ukrainian drones struck one of Russia’s largest oil refineries overnight, igniting a large fire and adding pressure to Russia’s growing fuel crisis, Ukrainian military officials confirmed Saturday.
The attack targeted the Kirishi refinery in the Leningrad region, which processes nearly 355,000 barrels of crude oil per day. It’s the latest in a string of Ukrainian drone strikes aimed at disrupting Russian energy infrastructure believed to be supporting the Kremlin’s war operations.
Ukraine’s General Staff released a nighttime photo showing smoke and flames rising from the site. The strike was followed by a brief fire, reportedly caused by debris from downed drones.
Regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko stated that three drones were intercepted over the Kirishi area, with one or more falling parts igniting the fire. He claimed there were no injuries and that the blaze was quickly extinguished.
While Russian officials have not commented on the full extent of the damage, the strike adds to mounting pressure on Russia’s domestic fuel supply.
With demand for gasoline rising seasonally and Ukrainian drone strikes continuing, parts of Russia are experiencing severe fuel shortages. Some gas stations have run completely dry, forcing long lines and restrictions on fuel sales.
In response, the Russian government has temporarily banned gasoline exports to ease domestic supply. The full export ban is in place until September 30, while additional limits on sales through intermediaries will continue through the end of October.
Ukraine’s strategy of targeting critical Russian infrastructure appears to be hitting its mark, further straining Moscow’s war logistics and causing visible disruptions inside Russia’s borders.
