Ukrainian Drones Strike Moscow Oil Refinery in Response to Russian Attacks

On Tuesday, during a summit of Group of 7 leaders centered on Russia’s conflict in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian drones targeted an oil refinery in Moscow. The site is located approximately 10 miles from the Kremlin.

Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, reported that the city experienced an attack by numerous drones, with at least one striking the Moscow Oil Refinery. He confirmed that no casualties or injuries occurred, but did not detail the damage extent.

A day earlier, Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, resulting in at least 11 deaths and numerous injuries. The attacks also damaged cultural landmarks, such as the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, an important cathedral in the Eastern Orthodox Church.

In a video statement, Mr. Zelensky described the Ukrainian drone attack as “a just response to Russian strikes and the Kremlin’s continuation of the war.”

The Moscow Oil Refinery is situated in the Kapotnya district and meets over a third of the city’s fuel needs, including jet fuel and other petroleum products, as per industry sources.

As Mr. Zelensky seeks direct discussions with President Vladimir V. Putin to conclude the conflict, Ukrainian military efforts have focused on increasing Russia’s war-related costs by targeting oil and gas facilities within its borders.

Russia must be forced to end its war against our people, Mr. Zelensky stated on Tuesday.

Marc Santora has reported from Ukraine since the start of the conflict with Russia. Previously, he worked as an international news editor in London, focusing on breaking news, and as the bureau chief for East and Central Europe from Warsaw. He has also extensively covered events in Iraq and Africa.