Feb 19 • 07:17 UTC 🇱🇹 Lithuania 15min

Russia announces it has shot down dozens of drones during an attack on an oil refinery

Russia's defense ministry claims to have shot down 113 Ukrainian drones targeting an oil refinery during a recent attack.

The recent discussions between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators aimed at resolving the ongoing four-year conflict, which were mediated by the United States in Geneva, concluded with no breakthrough despite both parties describing the talks as challenging. Simultaneously, the Russian defense ministry reported that it intercepted and destroyed 113 Ukrainian drones in an operation believed to be part of Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russian targets. Among the drone attacks was a specific target—a large oil refinery located approximately 500 km from Moscow.

The attack reportedly resulted in a fire at the oil storage facility, but according to Pskov region governor Mikhail Vedernikov, there were no injuries to civilians or refinery workers. This incident is part of a broader pattern of cross-border strikes, where Ukraine has been launching retaliatory measures against Russian oil facilities, ports, and energy infrastructure amid continuous bombardments on its territory by Russian forces. The engagement between the two nations reflects the escalating military confrontation that persists, as both sides remain entrenched in a conflict that shows little sign of resolution.

As the conflict evolves, these drone attacks illustrate Ukraine's strategy to target critical infrastructure within Russia, thereby seeking to undermine Russian military capabilities and disrupt oil supply chains. In response, Russia's claims regarding the interception of drones signal an ongoing acknowledgment of the threat posed by Ukraine's aerial capabilities, which may influence future military operations and diplomatic negotiations, particularly as they pertain to energy security and wartime strategies.

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