Drones strike Russian refinery amidst US concern over Ukrainian tactics

Another Russian refinery is ablaze in Kuybyshev, in the Samara region. Authorities have not officially disclosed the cause of the fire, but witnesses claim they saw drones.

The information about the refinery fire in Kuybyshev was first reported by independent Russian portals Astra, Baza, and Mash. According to their reports, witnesses mentioned hearing explosions at the refinery, followed by a fire outbreak. There were also sightings of drones in the area.

The Ria Novosti agency confirmed the refinery fire. "Drones attacked the oil refinery in Kuybyshev and attempted to strike the oil refinery in Novokuybyshevsk in the Samara region; as a result of the incident, there were no casualties or injuries," regional governor Dmitriy Azarov told reporters.

This incident marks another instance of a refinery in Russia catching fire following a recent drone attack.

The "Financial Times" reported that the United States has allegedly urged Ukraine not to strike Russian oil refineries and other energy infrastructure, fearing such actions could lead to higher energy prices and further escalate the war.

The Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration, Olha Stefanishyna, stated that oil refineries on Russian territory are legitimate targets for Ukraine from a military standpoint. According to her, Ukraine is acting in line with NATO standards in these instances.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the head of the President of Ukraine's Office, refuted claims that official Washington had requested Ukraine to halt attacks on Russian oil infrastructure.