Drone Strikes Ignite Tensions at Afipsky Oil Refinery

A fire erupted at the Afipsky oil refinery in Russia's Krasnodar region due to drone debris from a Ukrainian strike, according to local emergency services. The flames were extinguished promptly, though the damage's full extent remains unclear.

The Russian Defence Ministry reported their air systems intercepted nine Ukrainian drones in the area. The Ukrainian military acknowledged targeting the refinery but withheld specifics. Disruptions at Afipsky may reduce crude processing, potentially increasing Russia's exports in August, market sources suggest.

Ukraine's consistent targeting of Russian refineries through drone strikes underscores a strategic move to hinder Russia's oil export capabilities. Despite the attacks, Russia intends to escalate exports from its western ports. The Ryazan and Novokuibyshevsk refineries, affected by these strikes, are undergoing repairs expected to last a month.

(With inputs from agencies.)