By Diana George
Copyright timesnownews
As EU nations come under pressure from US President Donald Trump to tighten sanctions on Russia, Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. On Sunday, Ukrainian drones targeted the Kirishi refinery, one of Russia’s largest oil refineries, located in the Leningrad region. Kirishi Refinery: A Key Russian Oil Facility The Kirishi oil refinery, operated by Surgutneftegas, produces nearly 17.7 million metric tons per year (355,000 barrels per day) and ranks among Russia’s top three crude production facilities. The strike marks another step in Ukraine’s strategy to disrupt Russian oil supply and weaken energy logistics. Ukraine Targets Russia’s Energy Lifeline The Ukrainian military said explosions and fire were reported at the Kirishi refinery, with photos showing flames and smoke against the night sky. According to Regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko, “Three drones were downed overnight in the Kirishi area, with falling debris sparking a fire at the facility. No one was injured, and the blaze was put out.” This attack follows weeks of Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, which Kyiv says fuels Moscow’s war effort. Ukrainian drones previously targeted the Kirishi refinery in March, causing minor damage, Drozdenko noted. Russian Drones Cross into Poland and Romania More than three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, drones remain a key weapon for both sides. Multiple Russian drones entered Polish airspace on Wednesday, prompting NATO fighter jets to intervene. On Sunday, drones were also spotted in Romanian skies, with analysts suggesting the conflict was at risk of spilling beyond Ukraine. Russia Shoots Down Ukrainian Drones Russian authorities provided no immediate comment on the Kirishi refinery strike. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, at least 80 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight over Russia, the annexed Crimean Peninsula, and the Sea of Azov. Fuel Shortages Hit Russia The continued Ukrainian drone strikes and rising seasonal demand have reportedly caused gasoline shortages across Russia. Gas stations in several regions ran dry, prompting officials to pause gasoline exports, with a full ban until September 30 and a partial ban until October 31. Railway Incidents in Leningrad and Oryol The Leningrad region has also seen other incidents. Drozdenko reported that a diesel locomotive derailed near Gatchina, south of St. Petersburg. “The locomotive’s driver was trapped in his cabin, and later died of his injuries while being transported to a hospital. An official investigation will check for signs of sabotage,” he said. Separately, a bomb along railway lines in Russia’s Oryol region killed three, including a member of Russia’s National Guard, according to Governor Andrey Klychkov. The victims had been inspecting the track near Maloarkhangelsk, about 200 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Russian authorities did not immediately comment on the cause.
