Ukrainian drones set Russian refinery in Volgograd ablaze
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Zambian Observer
Ukrainian drones caused several fires at the Lukoil refinery in Volgograd overnight on 12-13 November. The facility, which can process about 15 million tonnes of oil a year, was targeted for the fourth time in 2026, according to Russian authorities and video analysis.
Ukrainian drones attacked the Lukoil-Volgogradneftepererabotka refinery in Volgograd, southern Russia, overnight on 12-13 November, causing several explosions and fires. Russian regional authorities confirmed several fires at an industrial enterprise and attributed them to falling drone debris, while images and OSINT analyses identified the refinery as the site hit, reports the Zambian Observer.
No casualties or damage to residential buildings were reported. Volgograd airport temporarily suspended arrivals and departures during the attack, according to the Zambian Observer.
The refinery can process about 15 million tonnes of crude oil a year, or nearly 270,000 barrels a day and about 5% of Russia’s refining capacity. It produces petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, fuel oil, bitumen and lubricants, among other products, reports the Zambian Observer.
The site had already been targeted in May, July and October 2026. The October attack forced the refinery to completely halt crude processing during the inspection and repair of equipment, before it resumed operations. The Zambian Observer reports that industry sources estimate the Ukrainian campaign has already taken up to 30% of Russia’s refining capacity out of operation.
