Targeted Attack on Strategic Oil Facility
Ukraine’s military has confirmed a successful strike on the Novoshakhtinsk Oil Refinery in Russia’s Rostov Oblast. The attack, which took place overnight on December 19, was carried out by Ukraine’s Naval Forces and Security Service (SBU) in coordination with other defense units. The targeted facility is a key infrastructure point in the region, playing a significant role in Russia’s energy supply chain.
According to the Ukrainian General Staff, Novoshakhtinsk Oil Products Plant is the only operational refinery in Rostov Oblast. It serves as a critical supplier of fuel to Russian armed forces, producing fuel oil, furnace fuel, marine diesel, and straight-run gasoline. The refinery, designed to process up to 7.5 million tons of crude oil annually, has been identified as a key asset supporting Russia’s military operations.
Fire Breaks Out at Key Refinery Unit
The military leadership confirmed that the strike caused a fire at the facility’s ELOU-AVT-2.5 catalytic cracking unit. These units are vital in the oil refining process, as they are responsible for separating crude oil into various usable fractions. Damage to such infrastructure can significantly disrupt refinery operations and fuel supply chains.
The Ukrainian General Staff stated that further information on the aftermath of the attack is still being assessed. While the exact scale of the damage remains unclear, the strike is seen as a blow to Russia’s military and economic capabilities.
Undermining Russia’s Military Potential
In their official statement, Ukraine’s military leadership emphasized the strategic goal behind such operations. The ongoing attacks on Russia’s energy and industrial infrastructure aim to weaken its military-economic potential and pressure the Kremlin to halt its aggression. By targeting critical fuel supplies, Ukraine seeks to disrupt logistical support for Russian forces engaged in combat.
Ukraine’s defense forces reiterated their commitment to continuing efforts that undermine Russia’s ability to sustain its war efforts. This latest strike underscores Ukraine’s strategy of hitting high-value infrastructure to erode Russia’s wartime resilience.
While Russia has yet to release an official response regarding the attack, the strike on Novoshakhtinsk marks another significant escalation in Ukraine’s campaign against strategic targets.
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