Ukrainian drones and missiles have targeted southern Russia’s largest oil refinery, the Novoshakhtinsk plant, in an attack that has been described as a massive strike by Russian authorities. The refinery, which is located in the Rostov region, was reportedly hit with over three dozen drones and three missiles, causing significant damage and fires.
The attack comes amid ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with Ukraine claiming it was a response to Russia’s own drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Russian authorities have described the strike as an act of terrorism.
Local residents reported hearing explosions just after midnight on Wednesday, and eyewitnesses posted video footage of the refinery in flames. Rostov’s acting governor Yuri Slyusar confirmed that one person was injured by falling debris from the attack.
This is not the first time Ukraine has targeted Russian energy facilities with drones. In July, Kyiv said it had destroyed 1.5 million tons of oil and fuel products worth $540 million at another refinery. Andriy Yusov, head of Ukraine’s intelligence service HUR, confirmed that one-third of Russia’s fuel facilities have been hit or damaged in Ukrainian military operations.
The attacks are becoming increasingly difficult to repair due to sanctions imposed on Russia, which have hampered access to imported equipment. As a result, some refineries have suspended or reduced production, leading to a drop in fuel exports and lower revenues for companies and the state budget.
Ukraine’s actions come as Moscow continues to pound Ukraine with drones and missiles, targeting energy infrastructure vital for winter. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of aggression.
The attack on Novoshakhtinsk is the latest in a series of strikes by Ukrainian forces against Russian energy facilities, which have been ongoing since July. It is unclear what the impact of this strike will be on Russia’s war effort, but it is likely to further escalate tensions between the two countries.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/russia-ukraine-drone-rostov-oil-2003284