Drone Strike Causes Fire at Tuapse Marine Terminal

The fallout from these attacks has forced the closure of nearby regional aviation hubs.

The Tuapse oil complex processes 12 million metric tons of crude annually. It serves as a crucial export route for naphtha, fuel oil, and diesel. Thick black smoke has hung high above the town, contributing to the environmental hazards reported by locals.

Emergency crews worked through the night to contain the refinery fire that ended on April 30, but the rapid succession of strikes has strained resources. Videos posted by locals show flames and smoke billowing from the oil refinery in Krasnodar Krai, with hundreds of such clips circulating despite initial censorship efforts.

Some residents have begun fleeing the area to seek shelter with family until the situation stabilizes.

The series of attacks began with devastating strikes in April that set off large fires, leading to the current state of emergency. Rospotrebnadzor highlighted the risks from elevated benzene, a highly toxic carcinogen, in its advisory to residents. Authorities noted that the marine terminal fire on May 1 followed directly on the heels of the refinery incident.

Putin received his briefing amid growing concerns, but emphasized resilience in his comments. TASS reiterated that intensive efforts are underway to prevent further Ukrainian strikes, though details about hit targets remain classified. The oil complex's role in processing and exporting fuels underscores the strategic importance of the site amid the ongoing disruptions.

Black rain has compounded the environmental disaster, with smoke persisting from the constant fires. Local authorities have abandoned censorship of videos from the site, allowing footage of the burning refinery to spread widely. The closure of aviation hubs reflects the broader regional impact of the smoke and safety risks.

Evacuations during the earlier refinery fire highlighted the immediate dangers, including oil spills into coastal waters. The state of emergency, in place for several days, has led to the suspension of public gatherings through early May. Rospotrebnadzor's warnings urge protective measures against the polluted air.

Strikes have targeted this infrastructure repeatedly, with the latest hitting the marine terminal. Regional emergency officials confirmed the response involving over 100 personnel.

President Putin's statement came after his briefing, downplaying dangers while acknowledging challenges. TASS affirmed that aftermath measures are proceeding appropriately. Nearby aviation closures stem from the serious fallout, including visibility issues from smoke.

Residents face ongoing hazards, with black rain and elevated benzene levels prompting health advisories. Canceled events cover major holidays like Labor Day and Victory Day. The rapid timeline—fires extinguished one day, new strikes the next—has intensified the crisis in this Black Sea town.