Ukrainian Drone Strike Ignites Fire at Major Russian Oil Refinery

A Ukrainian drone strike targeted the Kirishi oil refinery in Russia's Leningrad region, igniting a fire that was swiftly extinguished, according to regional governor Alexander Drozdenko. The facility, operated by Surgutneftegas, processes approximately 355,000 barrels of crude oil daily, accounting for 6.4% of Russia's total refining capacity.

Governor Drozdenko reported that three drones were downed in the Kirishi area, with debris from one causing the fire. He confirmed that no injuries occurred, and the blaze was promptly controlled.

This incident is part of a series of Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, which Kyiv asserts are aimed at disrupting resources fueling Moscow's military operations. The ongoing conflict has also seen drone incursions into NATO territory, raising concerns about the war's potential to expand beyond Ukraine's borders.

In response to recent attacks and a seasonal rise in demand, Russia has experienced gasoline shortages. To address this, Moscow has temporarily halted gasoline exports, implementing a full ban until September 30 and a partial ban affecting traders and intermediaries until October 31.