Massive fire engulfs Russian oil facilities after major overnight drone wave
A significant Ukrainian drone operation targeted strategic energy assets in the Kstovo industrial zone overnight, resulting in multiple fires at major industrial sites.
Regional Governor Gleb Nikitin reported that air defense units intercepted 30 Ukrainian drones. However, falling debris ignited blazes at two facilities owned by Lukoil-Nizhegorodnefteorgsintez, one of Russia's largest refineries.
The strike also damaged the Novogorkovskaya thermal power plant and nearby residential structures. Local energy grids were partially severed, leaving several districts without electricity as emergency services worked to contain the fallout.
While official reports state no casualties occurred, the economic impact is substantial. Analysts estimate the immediate infrastructure damage and production halts at €12,500,000, with potential for further losses if EUR-denominated supply contracts are delayed.
Visual evidence published by the Exilenova+ monitoring channel contradicted the "falling debris" narrative, showing direct impacts and a massive fire column visible for miles. These strikes represent a continued effort to degrade the logistical and financial backbone of the Russian energy sector.
Operations at the Kstovo refinery remain disrupted as specialists evaluate the integrity of the primary processing units. Recovery efforts are currently focused on restoring power to the affected residential areas.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
