Drone attack sparks deadly refinery fire in Krasnodar, amid rising Ukrainian strikes
4:33 AM EDT, March 17, 2024
An oil refinery fire occurred in the city of Slavyansk, Krasnodar Krai, following a reported drone attack. Local authorities confirmed at least one fatality.
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The fire erupted overnight from Saturday to Sunday due to an attack by Ukrainian drones, as reported by Reuters early Sunday, citing local officials.
A Telegram post from the authorities noted the drones were "neutralized." However, the crash of one drone sparked a fire, which was quickly brought under control.
The incident claimed the life of a refinery worker, who reportedly died from a heart attack. Online, photos showing billowing smoke from the fire have been shared widely.
Continued strikes on Russian industry
In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up its targeting of economic sites within Russia, launching attacks on several refineries particularly in the country's western areas. For instance, on the night of March 14 to March 15, a drone attack ignited a substantial blaze at a refinery in the Kaluga region.
These operations have led to tangible repercussions for Russians, including a surge in gasoline prices and a decrease in production by seven to eight percent, experts claim.
