Ukraine Strikes Key Russian Oil Facilities Near Baltic Sea, Disrupts Exports

Ukraine has carried out a series of coordinated strikes targeting critical oil export infrastructure in Russia, focusing on facilities near the Baltic Sea that are vital to Moscow’s economy. The attacks, confirmed through satellite imagery and verified footage, have left multiple oil depots burning over several days.

According to BBC Verify, intense strikes began on March 23 in Russia’s Leningrad region, close to St. Petersburg. Key targets included the oil export hubs at Ust-Luga Port and Primorsk Port, along with the Kirishi Oil Refinery—located roughly 800 kilometers from Ukraine’s border.

Data from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air highlights the strategic importance of these sites. In 2025, Primorsk and Ust-Luga alone accounted for a combined 42% of Russia’s total oil exports, making them crucial to the country’s energy supply chain.

The impact of the strikes was significant. Reports indicate that no oil shipments were loaded from these Baltic ports on March 26 and 27—marking the first complete halt in exports for two consecutive days since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Satellite images revealed extensive destruction, including multiple burning storage tanks and heavy smoke plumes rising from the affected areas. Analysis suggests that at least eight tanks at both Primorsk and Ust-Luga, along with two at the Kirishi refinery, were either destroyed or severely damaged. Data from NASA FIRMS also confirmed active fires in the region.

Despite the visible damage, Leningrad Governor Alexander Beglov stated that the fires had been brought under control and reported no casualties. However, circulating video footage showing thick smoke clouds has raised questions about the extent of the damage.

Ukrainian drone forces commander Robert Brovdi confirmed that the operation was carried out between March 23 and 28. He explained that the objective was to weaken Russia’s oil refining capacity and disrupt its export infrastructure.

The Ukrainian military also emphasized the importance of the Kirishi refinery, noting that it is one of Russia’s largest fuel production facilities and plays a key role in supporting military operations.