Ukraine has carried out a large-scale drone attack on Russian chemical factories and oil refineries tied to Moscow’s defense industry, delivering what analysts call a major blow to Vladimir Putin’s war machine.
Key Targets Hit
- Metafrax Chemicals in Gubakha, Perm region
- Novo-Ufimsky Oil Refinery in Ufa (about 870 miles from the frontlines)
- Kirishi Oil Refinery in the Leningrad region, one of Russia’s largest
The Kirishi refinery, capable of producing up to 21 million tons of output annually, erupted in massive flames after the strikes. Ukrainian officials confirmed responsibility, stating they are still assessing the damage and long-term impact.
Reactions and Local Reports
- The governor of Perm, Dmitry Makhonin, acknowledged the drone strike on Metafrax Chemicals but claimed there were no casualties and that operations would continue as normal.
- Ukrainian lawmakers, however, reported visible damage to the facility, which had only opened in 2023.
Located nearly 1,900 miles from Kyiv, the Gubakha factory attack highlights Ukraine’s expanding strike range deep into Russian territory, targeting critical energy and chemical infrastructure that supports Moscow’s invasion.
Strategic Significance
Military analysts say these strikes demonstrate Kyiv’s strategy to:
- Disrupt Russia’s fuel supplies and defense-linked industries
- Undermine Moscow’s logistical backbone
- Send a clear message that no Russian facility is beyond reach
