Ukrainian drones target Rosneft oil depots in Russia, sparking major fires

In a significant escalation of tactics, Ukrainian intelligence sources confirmed that drones operated by Ukraine‘s SBU security service successfully targeted two oil depots owned by Rosneft in Russia‘s Smolensk region. The overnight attack, which occurred on Wednesday, April 24, caused substantial fires at the facilities, which reportedly contained 26,000 cubic meters of fuel. This aggressive strike forms part of Ukraine’s strategic efforts to impair Russian military operations by hitting critical logistical assets that supply fuel to Russian forces engaged in Ukraine.

Top Developments:

– Ukrainian SBU security service conducts drone strikes on two Rosneft oil facilities in Russia’s Smolensk region.

– The attack triggers significant fires and leads to the evacuation of nearby areas.

– Ukrainian intelligence sources state these actions are part of ongoing efforts to disrupt Russian military logistics in Ukraine.

According to reports from Reuters, emergency response teams were promptly deployed to manage the substantial blazes, and evacuations were conducted in affected areas, including parts of Lipetsk in Russia’s southwest. Despite the severity of the fires, Vasily Anokhin, the governor of the Smolensk region, confirmed via a statement on the Telegram messaging app that there were no casualties as a result of the attack.

The Ukrainian intelligence source emphasized the legitimacy of the targets, stating, “The SBU continues to effectively destroy military infrastructure and logistics that provide fuel to the Russian army in Ukraine. These facilities are and will remain our absolutely legitimate targets.” This declaration underscores the ongoing tactical approach of Ukrainian forces to weaken Russian capabilities through targeted disruptions.

This recent operation by Ukraine signals a potent and calculated approach to the conflict, focusing on logistical elements that are critical to sustaining military operations. By targeting fuel supplies, Ukraine aims to create operational disruptions and logistical challenges for Russian forces, potentially slowing their efforts in the region. Such strategies, while escalating the scope of direct confrontations, are indicative of Ukraine’s resolve to use all available means to defend its sovereignty and disrupt Russian military operations.