Ukraine Hits Moscow Refinery in Major Drone Attack on Russian Capital

Ukraine has launched one of its largest drone assaults on Moscow since the start of the war, striking a major oil refinery in the Russian capital and exposing the growing reach of Kyiv’s long-range military capabilities. The attack marks the second time this week that the facility has come under fire.

According to Russian authorities, hundreds of Ukrainian drones targeted Moscow and surrounding regions overnight. While Russian air defence systems intercepted many of the drones, several reportedly penetrated the capital’s defences and struck the Moscow oil refinery located in the Kapotnya district. Flames and thick smoke were seen rising from the facility following the attack.

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that the refinery was hit during what he described as a “massive attack,” while Russia’s Defence Ministry said hundreds of drones were intercepted across the country. Authorities also reported injuries and damage to residential and commercial properties in the Moscow region.

The Moscow refinery is one of Russia’s most important fuel-processing facilities and plays a critical role in supplying fuel to the capital and surrounding regions. Recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure have already disrupted refinery operations and contributed to fuel supply concerns in parts of the country.

Ukrainian officials portrayed the latest operation as a demonstration of the country’s expanding military capabilities and a warning that Russia’s key infrastructure remains vulnerable despite being located far from the front lines.

The attack came amid renewed Russian missile strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. Ukrainian authorities accused Moscow of escalating attacks on civilian infrastructure, while Russia blamed Kyiv for targeting civilian areas inside Russian territory.

The drone assault also disrupted transportation in Moscow, forcing temporary flight suspensions at several airports and causing traffic restrictions around affected areas.

The strike highlights a new phase in the war, with Ukraine increasingly targeting strategic energy facilities deep inside Russia. Analysts say such attacks could place additional pressure on Moscow’s economy, energy sector, and military logistics while increasing the cost of the conflict for the Kremlin.

The latest attack underscores Ukraine’s growing drone warfare capabilities and signals that critical Russian infrastructure, including facilities in Moscow, remains within striking range as the conflict enters another volatile chapter.