Following a drone attack attributed to Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), two fuel storage tanks at the Tikhoretsk oil depot in Russia’s Krasnodar region are ablaze. Initial reports indicated one tank was affected, but enhanced satellite imagery from Planet has confirmed that both tanks are on fire.
The Russian consumer protection agency has reported elevated levels of benzene and xylene in the air surrounding the site. Smoke from the fire has spread nearly 15 kilometers.
According to an anonymous source within the SBU, the strike targeted one of the largest oil hubs in southern Russia. The attack was executed using drones from the SBU’s special operations unit, Alpha.
The Tikhoretsk oil hub is significant for Russian fuel logistics, housing a major oil depot and terminal. The SBU has documented the impact of the strike, which has resulted in a substantial fire. Social media videos appear to corroborate reports of burning fuel tanks.
Prior to this incident, the operational headquarters of the Krasnodar region reported a fire covering an area of 3,800 square meters at the oil depot, resulting from the drone attack that occurred overnight on March 12.
Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, various targets within Russia have experienced airstrikes. In 2024 and 2025, oil refineries have frequently been targeted, along with Russian facilities located in occupied Ukrainian territories.
The Ukrainian General Staff has confirmed the majority of these attacks, stating that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are systematically implementing measures aimed at diminishing the combat capabilities of Russian occupying forces and compelling Russia to cease its military aggression against Ukraine.
A recent drone strike by Ukraine's Security Service has led to significant fires at a major oil depot in Krasnodar, Russia. The incident highlights ongoing military actions targeting Russian fuel infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.
Source: Radio Free Europe