Ukraine drone strike in Russia kills 1, damages apartments
What's the story
A Ukrainian drone strike in the Saratov region of Russia has left one dead and several apartments damaged. The incident also impacted an industrial facility, though details about the facility remain unclear. Roman Busargin, the governor of Saratov region, confirmed on Telegram that debris from a destroyed drone damaged three apartments during an overnight attack.
Aftermath
One person died, several others injured
Busargin said, "Several residents required medical assistance," adding that "aid was provided on-site, and one has been hospitalized." He also confirmed that one person died in the incident. Russian air defense forces claimed to have shot down 121 Ukrainian drones overnight, including eight in Saratov region. However, the Defense Ministry only discloses how many drones were intercepted and not how many were launched by Ukraine.
Damage and disruption
Ukrainian media claims refinery was hit
Social media footage showed thick black smoke rising from what appeared to be an industrial zone. Reuters confirmed the location matched file and satellite imagery but couldn't verify when the video was filmed. Ukrainian media outlets, including RBK-Ukraine, reported that an oil refinery in Saratov city was on fire after the drone attack. However, these reports remain unverified as there has been no official comment from Russia regarding this incident.
History
Rosneft-owned refinery suspended operations earlier this year
The Rosneft-owned refinery in Saratov city had to suspend operations earlier this year due to safety concerns after Ukrainian drone attacks, industry sources told Reuters. Russia's SHOT Telegram channel reported that around eight explosions were heard over Saratov and Engels cities, separated by the Volga River. In light of the incident, Russia's civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia temporarily suspended flights in and out of Saratov for about two hours early Sunday for air safety reasons.