31/05/2026
UKRAINE STRIKES SARATOV OIL REFINERY AGAIN AS FIRES REPORTED AT KEY PROCESSING UNIT
Ukraine reportedly launched another overnight drone attack against Russia's Saratov Oil Refinery, with Russian and Ukrainian sources claiming fires broke out at multiple impact sites following strikes on the facility.
According to reports, one of the targets was the refinery's ELOU-AVT-6 primary crude processing unit, a critical component responsible for the initial processing and separation of crude oil. Videos circulating online appear to show flames and smoke rising from parts of the complex, although the full extent of the damage has not been independently verified.
The Saratov refinery has become one of the most frequently targeted energy facilities in Russia during the conflict. If confirmed, this would be approximately the 15th Ukrainian attack on the site since 2025, placing it among the most repeatedly struck refineries alongside the Ryazan facility. Previous attacks have reportedly led to temporary shutdowns, repair work, and disruptions to normal operations.
The refinery processes roughly 6 million tons of crude oil annually—equivalent to about 140,000 barrels per day—representing around 2.2% of Russia's total refining capacity. It plays an important role in supplying gasoline, diesel, and other petroleum products to several Russian regions, including Saratov, Volgograd, Tambov, and Voronezh, while also supporting exports through Black Sea routes.