Recent satellite images have revealed a fire at the Tikhoretsk oil pumping station in Russia’s Krasnodar region, following reports of a drone strike. The images show flames engulfing one of the fuel storage tanks at the facility.
A source from Radio Free Europe, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) targeted one of southern Russia’s largest oil hubs. This strike was reportedly executed by drones from the SBU’s Alpha special operations unit.
The Tikhoretsk oil hub is recognized as a significant logistical point for oil and petroleum products in southern Russia, housing a large oil depot and terminal. The source emphasized the strategic importance of this facility for Russian fuel logistics.
The SBU confirmed that the strike resulted in a substantial fire, with social media videos suggesting that fuel tanks were ablaze. The operational headquarters of Krasnodar reported a fire covering an area of 3,800 square meters at the oil depot, attributed to 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 aerial assaults. In 2024 and 2025, oil refineries have frequently been targeted, alongside Russian facilities located in occupied territories of Ukraine.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has corroborated most of these attacks, stating that Ukrainian defense forces are systematically implementing measures aimed at diminishing the combat capability of Russian occupying forces and compelling Russia to cease its armed aggression against Ukraine.
The SBU has reportedly struck a key oil facility in southern Russia, resulting in significant damage and fire. This incident reflects ongoing military actions targeting critical infrastructure amid the conflict.