Drones struck Tuapse's oil refinery overnight, damaging the processing unit and causing a crude oil spill, while a separate strike targeted the city's port that hosts Russian military vessels.
Locals in Russia's Samara Oblast reported hearing at least three explosions at night and seeing fire as drones struck the Syzran oil refinery, contradicting official statements that "no major damage occurred."
The region's largest pipeline pumping station suspended operations after sustaining damage, while two nearby refineries also came under drone attacks in Russia.
On 5 February, Ukraine successfully negotiated the return of 150 defenders from Russian captivity. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy has indicated openness to direct negotiations with Putin while simultaneously demanding nuclear deterrence capabilities if NATO membership remains distant.
Systematic Ukrainian deep strikes on Russia's largest oil facilities reveal a vulnerable energy giant whose air defenses struggle to protect its most vital economic assets