A Ukrainian drone attack struck Moscow’s oil refinery in the Kapotnya district on Thursday, according to Russian authorities, marking another blow to Russia’s energy infrastructure amid the ongoing war between the two countries.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said air defence systems responded to the attack, while reports from the area showed flames and thick smoke rising from the refinery complex. Authorities did not immediately provide details on casualties or the extent of the damage.
The latest strike comes just days after another Ukrainian drone attack reportedly disrupted operations at the same refinery. The facility has become a recurring target in Ukraine’s campaign against Russian fuel and energy infrastructure, which Kyiv views as critical to Moscow’s military capabilities.
The attack occurred as Russia launched a fresh overnight missile and drone assault on Ukraine. Air raid sirens sounded across Kyiv, and residents were urged to seek shelter as explosions were reported in the capital. Ukrainian officials also reported casualties in the northeastern city of Sumy, where at least one person was killed in a drone strike.
Repeated attacks on Russian refineries have begun affecting the country’s fuel supplies. Reports indicate that Russia is preparing to import gasoline by sea to ease shortages caused by damage to refining facilities and disruptions in domestic fuel production.
Earlier this week, Russian authorities said they had intercepted dozens of drones approaching Moscow. While most were reportedly shot down, debris from one drone caused minor damage to a shopping centre on the outskirts of the city. No injuries were reported in that incident.
The exchange of strikes highlights the continuing intensity of the conflict despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently held discussions with US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and other world leaders during the G7 summit. Zelenskyy described the talks as a coordinated effort aimed at exploring pathways to end the war.
As both sides continue launching attacks deep inside each other’s territory, concerns remain over the conflict’s impact on energy markets, civilian safety, and regional stability.
