Ukrainian forces have reportedly launched a drone strike on a key oil refinery in southern Russia overnight, sparking a significant fire at the facility, according to local authorities.
This attack, which hit the oil refinery in Russia’s Astrakhan region, is the latest in a series of aerial assaults targeting critical energy infrastructure as tensions continue to rise.
Regional Governor Igor Babushkin confirmed the strike, noting that employees at the fuel and energy complex were evacuated prior to the attack. Despite the precautionary measures, the strike resulted in a large blaze, and one person was injured, later being rushed to the hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, Moscow responded with its own barrage, firing nearly 200 drones at Ukraine. Ukrainian air defense systems intercepted and shot down 90 of these drones, including several Iranian-made Shahed models, the Ukrainian air force reported.
Despite the defensive efforts, the southern region of Odesa suffered power outages affecting approximately 500 people, and one person was injured.
Several buildings, including a preschool, were damaged in the attack, according to Odesa’s governor, Oleg Kiper.
This intense wave of drone strikes underscores the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with both sides targeting each other’s energy assets.
As this high-stakes battle unfolds, Ukraine has also criticized Russia for rejecting a proposed 30-day ceasefire by the United States, which was offered without any preconditions.
As the situation continues to escalate, both nations remain locked in a brutal exchange of aerial attacks, further straining regional stability.
