Drone threat prompts refinery evacuation and airport closures
The evacuation of workers from the Taneco refinery in Nizhnekamsk, Russia, is currently underway. In the neighbouring town of Yelabuga, the sky has been illuminated by spotlights in an effort to detect drones. Operations at four airports have also been suspended: in Nizhnekamsk, Izhevsk, Kirov, and Ufa.
Before 1 PM Greenwich Mean Time, the Federal Air Transport Agency announced that "temporary restrictions" had been implemented at the airport in Nizhnekamsk, allegedly due to Ukrainian drones flying over the region.
Restrictions on operations have also been implemented at the airports in Izhevsk, Kirov, and Ufa.
Taneco refinery evacuation
Shortly afterwards, alarm sirens sounded at the Taneco refinery, also in Nizhnekamsk, prompting an urgent evacuation of the facility. Videos published by the Baza channel show dozens of workers leaving the site.
The alarm was also heard in nearby Yelabuga, where residents noticed spotlights in the sky that assist air defence systems in shooting down drones.
Residents told to stay indoors
Residents also received messages from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, advising them to stay indoors and avoid going near windows.
These towns are located approximately 746 miles from the Ukrainian border.
