Ukrainian drones carried out a major strike on one of Russia&rsquo;s largest oil refineries overnight, triggering a fire that was later contained. Both Russian officials and Ukraine&rsquo;s military confirmed the incident on Sunday.
The attack hit the Kirishi refinery in the Leningrad region, a facility that handles about 17.7 million metric tonnes of crude annually, or around 355,000 barrels per day. Operated by Surgutneftegas, it is among the top three refineries in Russia in terms of production.
Ukraine&rsquo;s General Staff reported explosions and a fire at the site. Leningrad regional governor Alexander Drozdenko said three drones were shot down in the area, and falling debris caused the blaze. &ldquo;No one was injured, and the blaze was put out,&rdquo; he stated.
Russia&rsquo;s Defence Ministry claimed that at least 80 Ukrainian drones were intercepted across Russia, Crimea, and the Sea of Azov during the night, but did not give details about the scale of damage at Kirishi.
The strike comes as Russia struggles with fuel shortages. Long queues have formed at gas stations in some regions, and authorities have imposed restrictions on fuel exports. Petrol exports have been suspended until the end of September, with partial restrictions continuing into late October.
Russia, the world&rsquo;s second-largest oil exporter, has faced repeated disruptions from drone attacks in recent weeks, worsening supply issues and fueling domestic shortages.
Separately, a diesel locomotive derailed overnight in the Leningrad region. Governor Drozdenko said the driver, trapped in his cabin, later died in hospital. Investigators are looking into whether sabotage was involved.
In another incident, a device exploded on railway tracks in the Oryol region, around 200 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. Governor Andrey Klychkov confirmed that three people, including a National Guard officer, were killed while inspecting the damaged track. The cause of the blast is still under investigation.

Ukrainian drones hit major Russian oil refinery

Kirishi refinery fire erupts as Russia battles fuel shortages and rail sabotage cases

Ukrainian drones hit major Russian oil refinery

Kirishi refinery fire erupts as Russia battles fuel shortages and rail sabotage cases

September 14, 2025 | 19:29 IST