Drone strike sparks explosions and fires in Russia’s Engels and Saratov
Employees of Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Explosions rang out in Engels and Saratov on the night of February 22 following an attack by unidentified drones. In footage, eyewitnesses commented on the fires, according to Russian media.
Strikes in Engels
Local public Telegram channels reported a drone attack threat after midnight. Information was confirmed in his Telegram by Roman Busargin, the governor of Saratov Oblast, who reported a threat to the entire region.
Soon afterward, Telegram channels began publishing footage of the drone attack and its consequences. Witnesses commenting on what was happening pointed to two fire outbreak sites.
Notably, in parallel with the drone threat alerts, monitoring channels also reported the alleged takeoff of a Tupolev Tu-160 strategic bomber.
Attack on Saratov
It also became known about a drone attack in Saratov — footage appeared showing columns of smoke allegedly rising over an oil refinery.
“Explosions over the city began around 02:00 at night and are still ongoing. In total, about 8–10 loud sounds were heard in the southern part, which triggered car alarms,” one public channel wrote.
Locals reported seeing two flashes over the Volga River.
“According to eyewitnesses, several enemy drones have already been shot down. There is currently no official information about casualties or damage. Air raid sirens are sounding over the cities,” added one of the Telegram channels.
Saratov Gagarin Airport has introduced temporary restrictions on the acceptance and dispatch of aircraft due to the attack.
