Ukraine has firmly denied Moscow’s assertion on Sunday that a Ukrainian drone hit the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Meanwhile, Kyiv launched new strikes on Russian energy sites overnight.
Ukrainian Drone Strikes in Russia
Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed that its drones targeted the Saratov oil refinery in southwestern Russia, igniting a significant fire. The refinery, owned by Rosneft, supplies Moscow’s military efforts with diesel and gasoline. While the full extent of the damage is under review, Roman Busargin, the local governor, reported that Ukrainian drones damaged civilian infrastructure, but he did not provide detailed information. Astra, a Russian news channel, corroborated by reporting a fire at the Saratov refinery.
In its ongoing campaign, Ukraine has intensified attacks on Russia’s energy sector, arguing these facilities are crucial to supporting Russia’s ongoing invasion, over four years old.
Further Drone Attacks and Regional Impact
Drone debris caused a blaze at a fuel depot in Russia’s southwestern Rostov region, adjacent to the Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine. Governor Yuriy Slyusar reported on Telegram on Sunday that nearby residents had been evacuated for safety reasons. Ukraine’s General Staff acknowledged responsibility for the attack on the Matveev Kurgan depot, where local officials earlier noted a drone strike led to a large fire spiral.
Additionally, Ukraine targeted the Lazarevo pumping station in Russia’s Kirov region, northeast of Moscow, approximately 745 miles from Ukrainian territory. This station is integral for transporting Russian oil from Siberia to Belarus. Governor Alexander Sokolov confirmed that drones impacted a facility within the Kirov region but withheld further details.
Denials and Concerns Over Nuclear Plant Allegations
Kyiv categorically rejected Russia’s claim that a Ukrainian drone attacked Europe’s largest nuclear plant, Zaporizhzhia. Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear energy company, alleged the drone left a hole in the turbine hall wall following an explosion. CEO Alexei Likhachev accused Ukraine of intending harm, denying any impact on crucial equipment.
Ukraine’s military countered, rejecting the allegations as “propaganda” and affirming compliance with international humanitarian law regarding nuclear facilities.
No active combat was occurring near the front line when the incident took place. Rafael Grossi, the IAEA chief, expressed deep concern on X following the incident. The Russian-captured plant in southern Zaporizhzhia continues to stir fears of a nuclear disaster. Both Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of deliberate targeting.
Drone Warfare Continues
On another front, Ukraine’s air force reported on Sunday the downing of 212 out of 299 drones launched by Russia overnight. Despite the strong defense, 14 drones reached intended targets, and falling debris was noted in five locations.
Russian drones also targeted the city of Dnipro and an oil refinery in Ukraine’s Rivne region, leading to fires. Oleksandr Koval, the head of Rivne’s regional administration, assured that no injuries occurred at the refinery, with emergency responders actively managing the site.