Ukraine Hits Russia’s Perm Refinery With Long-Range Drones
Key Points:
- Ukraine conducted a long-range drone strike on oil refineries in Perm, Russia, about 1,500 km from the Ukrainian border, marking a rare deep strike into Russian territory.
- The attack targeted the Lukoil-Permnefteorgsintez refinery, one of Russia’s largest and most advanced oil processing facilities, and also damaged nearby buildings including an apartment complex and administrative offices without causing casualties.
- Ukrainian forces, specifically the Unmanned Systems Forces, claimed responsibility for the strike, using drones such as the Antonov An-196 “Liutyi,” as part of a broader campaign to disrupt Russian oil infrastructure and reduce Moscow’s oil revenue.
- Russia acknowledged the attack on industrial sites and increased security measures ahead of Victory Day celebrations, while Ukrainian officials stated the refinery strikes have caused significant financial damage estimated at $7 billion in 2026.
- Despite these strikes, analysts note that Russia’s oil revenue impact remains uncertain due to higher global fuel prices and substantial government subsidies supporting the energy sector.