Drone Strike Reaches Russia’s Oil Heartland—Ufa Refinery Burns 1,400 km From Ukraine

A drone strike triggered a large fire at an oil refinery in the Russian city of Ufa, according to the OSINT community Exilenova+ on April 2.

Residents reported a series of explosions in the early morning hours, followed by a massive blaze at the facility, with thick black smoke visible across multiple districts of the city.

According to Cyberboroshno OSINT analysts, the strike targeted the AVT-5 primary distillation unit at the Bashneft-Novoil refinery, one of the key installations responsible for initial crude oil processing.

“There is very intense burning and a large volume of black smoke being released. The AVT unit is the primary stage of oil refining and a critical part of the production process—without it, further processing is impossible,” analysts said.

Damage to such a unit could significantly disrupt refinery operations, as it plays a central role in separating crude oil into usable products.

Regional officials confirmed that drones struck an industrial area in Ufa, leading to the fire.

Videos captured by residents and shared on social media show flames engulfing parts of the facility, with smoke rising high above the city skyline.

Authorities also introduced an air alert across the Bashkortostan region due to the drone threat, while operations at Ufa’s airport were temporarily suspended.

The Bashneft-Novoil refinery is part of Bashneft, a major Russian oil company controlled by Rosneft since 2016.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

Seven Days of Deep Strikes: Ukrainian Drones Cripple Russian Oil Exports via Baltic Ports

Apr 01, 2026 18:31

The facility processes between 7 and 7.4 million tons of oil annually, producing gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel, lubricants, and other petroleum products.

Located roughly 1,400 kilometers from Ukraine, the strike highlights the expanding range of drone operations targeting Russia’s energy infrastructure.

Earlier, Russia’s largest oil producer, Rosneft, reported a 73% decline in its 2025 net income, revealing the deep economic scars left by Western sanctions and a chaotic global logistics market.

Support our frontline reporters

We report from the front lines to show the reality of war. Your support helps us stay there and tell the stories that matter.

DONATE NOW