Ukraine's Security Service attacks 3 Rosneft refineries in Russia's Samara region
Illustrative photo: Ukraine's Security Service attacks 3 Rosneft refineries in Russia's Samara region (Getty Images)
The Security Service of Ukraine attacked three oil refineries in the Samara region of Russia overnight on March 16. The targets were facilities belonging to Rosneft, says RBC-Ukraine source.
According to the source, SSU drones conducted strikes on three Rosneft oil refineries in the Samara region. The targets were the Novokuibyshevsk, Kuibyshev, and Syzran refineries.
Combined, these refineries process about 25 million tons of oil annually, which is nearly 10% of Russia's total oil refining capacity.
"The SSU continues to implement a strategy to undermine Russia's economic potential, which enables it to wage war in Ukraine. The bavovna (explosions ironically - ed.) season on Russian refineries is in full swing. Each such strike reduces the flow of oil dollars that fuel Russia's wartime economy," the source says.
Explosions in the Samara region
Explosions were reported overnight on March 16 in the Samara region near oil refineries, particularly in Syzran.
Reports on social media indicated drone attacks and powerful fires at two refineries, namely Novokuibyshevsk and Syzran.
Attacks on Russian refineries
Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refineries are becoming increasingly systematic. Recently, a drone attacked one of the largest oil refineries in Yaroslavl.
RBC-Ukraine's sources also reported SSU drones striking a refinery in Tuapse, resulting in a massive fire.
SSU drones also successfully targeted the Ust-Luga Oil terminal, which processes fuel, including supplies for the Russian military.
For more information on whether strikes on refineries could cripple Russia and aid Ukraine on the front lines, read this article.
