The Russia-Ukraine war intensified further as a Ukrainian drone struck one of Russia’s largest oil refineries, causing a massive fire. However, the strike only caused minor damage and no injuries.
According to AFP, the refinery belongs to Bashneft, a major Russian oil company. It is located on the outskirts of Ufa, a central Russian city nearly 870 miles (1,400 km) from the Ukraine frontline.
Meanwhile, videos circulating online showed the drone flying toward the refinery on Saturday. Moments later, it exploded in a fireball, sending thick smoke billowing into the sky.
💥 Russia: Ukrainian drone struck the Novo-Ufimsky Oil Refinery in Ufa, 1,600km from Ukraine.
— Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) September 13, 2025
Refining capacity of 7.4 million tons per year, 148,000 barrels per day.https://t.co/umeBY6BG7E pic.twitter.com/8DWCRs7ykB
Russia Confirms the Attack
Later, Radiy Khabirov, head of Russia’s Bashkortostan region, confirmed the strike on Telegram. “Today, Bashneft’s facility was subjected to a terrorist attack by aircraft-type drones,” he said.
Furthermore, he revealed that one drone crashed into the plant, while another was shot down. “There were no casualties or injuries. The production site sustained minor damage, and a fire broke out, which is currently being extinguished,” he added.
Ukraine Claims Responsibility
In response, a source from Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency told AFP that Ukraine was behind the attack. Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Kyiv has carried out multiple strikes on Russian refineries to weaken Moscow’s ability to finance its war efforts.
Over the summer, a wave of Ukrainian attacks disrupted operations at several key Russian oil facilities and pushed fuel prices higher.
The Bashneft Ufa refining complex is vital to Russia’s energy sector. Previously, in 2016, the Kremlin described it as “one of the largest in the country,” producing over 150 different oil products.
Ukraine’s Growing Financial Needs
At the same time, Ukraine announced that it needs at least $120 billion next year to continue defending itself against Russia. Additionally, officials said the country would require a similar amount to maintain its military strength, even if the war ends.
Currently, Ukraine spends one-third of its total economic output on defense. As a result, the nation relies heavily on financial aid from Western allies to stabilize its economy.
Overall, this latest attack highlights Ukraine’s strategy to target Russia’s energy infrastructure while simultaneously seeking greater international support for its war effort.