In the early hours of September 14, 2025, Ukrainian forces conducted a drone operation targeting the Kirishi oil refinery, also known as Kirishinefteorgsintez (KINEF), located in Russia's Leningrad Oblast. This facility is recognized as one of Russia's largest oil processing plants, with an annual capacity to process approximately 17.7 million metric tons of crude oil, representing about 6.4% of Russia's total refining output.
Governor Alexander Drozdenko of Leningrad Oblast reported that Russian air defense systems successfully intercepted three drones in the vicinity of Kirishi. However, debris from one of the downed drones reportedly caused a fire on the refinery's premises, which was subsequently extinguished. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the attack, emphasizing the Kirishi refinery's role as a leading Russian oil processor. The facility, operated by Surgutneftegas, is responsible for producing around 80 different petroleum products, including essential fuels like automotive gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel. This operation is part of a broader strategic effort by Ukraine to target Russian energy infrastructure, aiming to diminish the nation's economic strength and curtail its ability to fuel military operations.
This incident follows a series of Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, which have reportedly disrupted as much as 10% of Russia's refining capacity earlier in 2025 and contributed to gasoline shortages in some Russian regions. In parallel, former President Donald Trump has publicly advocated for all NATO members to cease Russian oil purchases and adopt similar restrictive measures, while the European Union remains committed to phasing out Russian oil and gas imports by 2028, with ongoing discussions about accelerating this timeline.