Ukraine launches 361-drone attack on Russia; Massive fire at oil refinery

The biggest impact of this drone attack was on the Kirishi refinery in the northwestern Leningrad region of Russia. This refinery is counted among the three largest refineries in Russia and produces about 17.7 million metric tons (3.55 lakh barrels per day) of crude oil every year.

Kyiv: The Russia-Ukraine war has once again reached a new turn. On Saturday night, Ukraine carried out the biggest drone attack on Russia so far. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that their air defense system shot down 361 Ukrainian drones, including four guided aerial bombs and a US-made HIMARS missile. Ukraine called the attack successful and said that it targeted Russia's major energy infrastructure.

Kirishi refinery became the target

The biggest impact of this drone attack was on the Kirishi refinery in the northwestern Leningrad region of Russia. This refinery is counted among the three largest refineries in Russia and produces about 17.7 million metric tons (3.55 lakh barrels per day) of crude oil every year.

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After the attack, the refinery caught fire and flames and smoke were visible far away in the night sky. Regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko said that three drones were shot down in the area and their falling debris sparked a fire. However, the fire was brought under control and there are no reports of casualties.

Gasoline shortage in Russia

Continuous drone attacks and increasing demand for fuel have created a gasoline crisis in Russia. There is a shortage of fuel at petrol pumps in many areas and drivers have to wait in long queues. To handle the situation, Russia has announced a complete ban on gasoline exports till September 30 and a partial ban till October 31. This will give priority to domestic supply.

Strictness of American lawmakers

Political turmoil is also intensifying in the US over the Ukraine war. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and House of Representatives member Brian Fitzpatrick said they would demand to attach their bill to the government for new sanctions on Russia. Under this bill, Russia will face additional sanctions for refusing peace talks. This may also affect countries like India and China, which are buying oil from Russia.

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Russia's show of power

Amid the attacks, Russia also demonstrated its military power. Moscow said that its army successfully fired the Zircon (Tsirkon) hypersonic cruise missile in the Barents Sea. Apart from this, Sukoi SU-34 fighter bombers carried out attacks in joint military exercises with Belarus.

This major drone attack by Ukraine has challenged Russia not only economically but also at the strategic level. The fire at the Kirishi refinery and the shortage of gasoline have raised questions about Russia's energy security. On the other hand, the US and its allies are preparing for new sanctions on Russia. In such a situation, the possibility of war becoming more intense has increased.