Key facts
- Ukraine conducted a drone strike on a Moscow oil refinery on June 16.
- The refinery is located 15 km from the Kremlin in the Kapotnya district.
- The facility supplies up to 40% of Moscow's fuel and serves its airports.
- Kyiv framed the attack as retaliation for Russia's recent aerial campaign, including damage to a monastery.
- Russian authorities confirmed damage to the refinery but reported no casualties.
Ukraine claimed responsibility for a drone strike on a Moscow oil refinery on June 16, located approximately 15 kilometers from the Kremlin. The facility is a significant supplier, accounting for up to 40% of the capital's fuel market and serving its airports.
Kyiv framed the attack as retaliation for Russia's intensifying aerial campaign, particularly after drones damaged a UNESCO-listed monastery complex in the capital the previous day. Russian authorities confirmed damage to the refinery in the Kapotnya district, though no casualties were reported. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin announced the incident, stating that 'one of the drones damaged a Moscow oil refinery facility.'
President Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's responsibility, describing the operation as a demonstration of long-range capabilities and a 'just response to Russian strikes.' He noted the refinery was hit at a distance of 500 kilometers. This strike followed a day where Kyiv reported Russia launched over 600 drones and 70 missiles across Ukraine, resulting in at least 11 deaths and significant damage, including to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.