Ukrainian Drones Damage Major Kirishi Refinery Leningrad

Ukrainian forces launched drone strikes targeting one of Russia’s largest oil refineries, the Kirishi refinery in the Leningrad region, causing explosions and a significant fire. The refinery, operated by Surgutneftegas, produces a substantial volume of petroleum products critical to the Russian military effort. This attack is part of a broader Ukrainian campaign against Russian oil infrastructure, including recent strikes on other refineries such as Bashneft-NOVOIL in Ufa and the Primorsk oil loading port. Russian authorities reported intercepting some drones and downplayed damage to the Kirishi refinery, attributing the fire to falling debris, but Ukrainian sources provided photographic evidence of the blaze. The continued use of drones remains a key tactical element for both sides, with recent incidents including Russian drones crossing into NATO airspace and Ukraine attacking critical infrastructure deep inside Russia. These strikes underscore ongoing intense military activity and the strategic importance of energy assets in the conflict.