Ukrainian Drone Strikes Hit Russian Oil Refinery in Tuapse

The strikes released oil into local waterways and contaminated air with toxins. A local resident reported seeing oil droplets and soot on his clothing after one of the attacks. He described a strong smell similar to standing next to an exhaust pipe. The resident, who is 52, said he usually wears white shirts but avoided them that day.

Local authorities stated that dangerous levels of toxins have filled the air. They also reported that tons of oil have been released into waterways. Officials have removed about one million cubic feet of contaminated pebbles and soil from the coastline.

Russian officials have not publicly estimated the total amount of oil spilled. The attacks form part of a broader Ukrainian campaign targeting energy export infrastructure inside Russia. Ukraine has conducted scores of such strikes this year using its own long-range drones and cruise missiles.

The strikes aim to reduce Russia's oil revenue at a time when Moscow anticipates supply disruptions in the Middle East. The fighting has now lasted more than four years.