Ukraine launched a significant overnight strike on a major oil export terminal in Novorossiysk, Russia, igniting a large fire and compromising vital infrastructure. This well-timed attack coincides with ongoing Russian airstrikes across Ukraine, including heavy strikes on Kyiv. The targeted facility is a cornerstone of Russia’s oil export operations, and the strike is seen as a strategic move by Ukraine to cut off a crucial revenue stream for Moscow’s war effort. According to Ukraine’s General Staff, the operation resulted in damage to critical port and oil terminal assets, alongside an S-400 air defense launcher. Long-range Neptune missiles and various types of strike drones were instrumental in this operation. President Zelensky had previously confirmed Ukraine’s use of its domestically manufactured long-range Neptune cruise missiles against Russian targets, terming it a justified response to Russian terror. Ukraine’s top military official has noted an uptick in the effectiveness of Ukrainian long-range systems like Neptune and Flamingo missiles, as well as jet drones. A Ukrainian intelligence source reported that the strike incapacitated oil tankers, pipeline infrastructure, and pumping equipment at Russia’s second-largest oil export hub, causing a major conflagration. The regional governor acknowledged the strike, attributing damage and injuries to downed drone fragments, and declared a state of emergency. Russia’s military reported intercepting a significant volume of Ukrainian drones. Simultaneously, Kyiv suffered a brutal Russian aerial bombardment, leading to a tragic loss of life and numerous injuries. Russian attacks also caused casualties in Chornomorsk.
