Ukraine's Strategic Drone Attacks on Russian Oil Depots
Ukraine has intensified its efforts to disrupt Russia's war efforts by targeting oil depots in the Rostov region. On the night of June 17-18, 2024, a significant drone attack set ablaze the oil storage facilities in Rostov-on-Don. The fires continued to rage well into the following afternoon, as revealed by satellite images from investigative journalist Noch Skhemy of Radio Liberty in Ukraine. This attack is part of a broader strategy by Kyiv to weaken Moscow's aggression.
Impact of the Drone Attacks
The targeted oil depot, owned by Azovprodukt, processes up to 60,000 tons of oil products monthly. The tanks involved in the fire can hold up to 30,000 cubic meters of oil products. The governor of Rostov Oblast, Vasily Golubev, confirmed that the fires were a result of a drone attack. Reports from Russian Telegram channels indicated that residents heard five explosions, and a methanol tank in Azov was also set ablaze. The Ukrainian Security Service (SSU) has claimed responsibility for these attacks, stating that they will continue to target Russia's oil refining complex to hinder its war capabilities.
Broader Implications and Future Attacks
This recent attack is not an isolated incident. Just days before, on June 14, 2024, Ukraine launched a major drone attack on multiple regions in Russia, including Belgorod, Volgograd, Voronezh, Kursk, and Crimea. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that 70 missiles were repelled over the Rostov region alone. Power outages were reported in several towns, and minor damage occurred at another oil depot in the Voronezh region. Ukraine's persistent attacks on Russian energy sites underscore Kyiv's commitment to bringing the conflict to Russian soil in retaliation for ongoing bombings on Ukrainian territory.
- A fire broke out at an oil refinery in Azov, Rostov region, following a nighttime drone attack. Local authorities reported that 208 firefighters, 39 vehicles, and a fire train were dispatched to control the blaze. Governor Vasily Golubev emphasized that there were no casualties from the incident.
- The port of Azov houses two significant oil product terminals, DonTerminal and Azovprodukt, which handled around 220,000 tons of fuel for export from January to May 2024. The recent drone attacks have significantly impacted these facilities, further straining Russia's energy infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.
