Ukrainian Drone Attacks Target Southern Russian Refineries and Azov Port
Poinews.com – On Friday, Ukrainian drones struck oil refineries in southern Russia and the Taganrog port on the Azov Sea, prompting officials to declare emergencies and relocate some residents. Local authorities reported fires at the seaport, with smoke plumes visible in social media footage. Governor Yuri Slyusar confirmed the damage, stating efforts to control the petroleum fire are continuing.
Russian Defense Claims Success in Droning Campaign
Russia’s defense ministry stated that its forces had shot down over 370 Ukrainian drones, including several near Moscow. The strikes, which hit two oil storage sites in Azov, are part of Kyiv’s broader strategy to disrupt Moscow’s financial resources and create a nationwide fuel crisis. This comes as Ukraine seeks to pressure Russia into negotiations.
“Efforts to extinguish the fire of petroleum products at the seaport are ongoing,” Slyusar remarked, noting that dozens of residents had been moved to temporary shelters. He added, “I told them frankly: unfortunately, it will not be possible to extinguish this type of fire quickly.”
International Reactions and Strategic Shifts
U.S. President Donald Trump praised Kyiv’s strikes during a meeting with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, calling the escalation a potential step toward ending the conflict. Meanwhile, the Kremlin criticized the White House’s approach, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov labeling it a “mistaken view.” Putin acknowledged the strikes were causing fuel shortages but claimed they aimed to sow division among Russians.
Ukrainian Commander Outlines War Progress
Ukraine’s commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrsky, noted that while recent military successes have slowed the Russian advance, a decisive turning point in the war remains distant. He highlighted a reduction in active offensive fronts and a halving of Russia’s assault frequency, yet emphasized the need for continued vigilance. “At the same time, the enemy must not be underestimated,” Syrsky said, adding that Ukraine had targeted 697 locations within Russia in the past six months.
