Ukrainian Drones Attack Russian Oil Depot, Causing Major Fire

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Ukrainian military sources report that drones successfully targeted an oil depot in the city of Engels, Russia, which is known to supply fuel to the Engels-2 military airfield housing Russia's strategic bomber fleet. The attack resulted in a massive fire and multiple explosions at the “Kristal” oil complex.

Ukrainian officials stated that striking this oil facility would complicate logistics for the Russian air force, potentially hindering its operations against Ukraine. Russian media have confirmed the existence of a fire at an industrial site, but initial reports indicate no casualties.

Regional authorities, including Governor Roman Busargin, acknowledged the incident, describing it as a “mass drone attack.” The governor assured that adequate resources are available to manage the fire. Meanwhile, Russia's defense ministry claimed that it intercepted and destroyed 11 Ukrainian drones during the night across various regions, including Saratov.

The Engels airbase is located approximately 450 miles southeast of Moscow, well inland from the Russian-Ukrainian border. Military analysts suggest that the conflict between Ukraine and Russia has increasingly relied on drone warfare, with both countries rapidly advancing their drone capabilities for strategic advantages on the battlefield.

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