Ukrainian drones attacked one of Russia's largest oil refineries overnight, igniting a fire and causing explosions, according to reports from both Ukrainian military sources and Russian officials. The strike occurred at the Kirishi refinery, located in the northwestern Leningrad region of Russia. This incident is part of a series of Ukrainian assaults on Russian oil infrastructure, which Kyiv claims supports Moscow's ongoing military operations in Ukraine.

The Kirishi facility, managed by the Russian oil company Surgutneftegas, has a production capacity of nearly 17.7 million metric tons of crude oil annually, making it one of the top three refineries in Russia. The Ukrainian General Staff reported explosions and a fire at the site, sharing an image that appeared to show flames and smoke against the night sky.

Leningrad Governor Alexander Drozdenko stated that three drones were intercepted in the Kirishi area, with debris from the downed drones causing the fire. He confirmed that there were no injuries and that the fire was extinguished. Russian officials reported that over 80 Ukrainian drones were shot down across various regions, including occupied Crimea and the Sea of Azov, during the same night.

The ongoing conflict has seen drones become a significant weapon for both Ukraine and Russia, with recent incidents highlighting the potential for escalation beyond Ukraine's borders. In a related event, multiple Russian drones entered Polish airspace, prompting NATO to deploy fighter jets to intercept them.

In addition to the refinery strike, the Leningrad region experienced a separate incident where a diesel locomotive derailed. Governor Drozdenko reported that the driver was trapped and later succumbed to injuries while being transported to a hospital. An investigation will look into possible sabotage.

In another tragic event, a bomb planted along railway lines in Russia's Oryol region resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including a member of Russia's National Guard. This incident occurred near Maloarkhangelsk, approximately 200 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

As the conflict continues, Russia faces challenges in its oil exports. A seasonal increase in demand, coupled with ongoing drone strikes, has led to gasoline shortages in various regions. Many gas stations have run out of fuel, forcing motorists to wait in long lines. In response, Russian authorities have implemented a full ban on gasoline exports until September 30 and a partial ban affecting traders until October 31.