By: The Trek News Desk
A major oil terminal in the Russian port city of Novorossiysk, strategically located on the Black Sea, was temporarily shut down following a Ukrainian strike on Friday. The attack has disrupted approximately 2% of global oil exports, according to Russian officials and industry sources.
Sheskharis Oil Terminal Hit, Large Fire Ignited
The Sheskharis oil terminal, a key point for receiving oil through pipelines, was the target of the Ukrainian assault. The blast caused a massive fire, which has since been extinguished. However, the attack resulted in the suspension of 2.2 million barrels per day of oil exports, according to media reports citing industry sources.
Repeated Targeting of Black Sea Logistics Hub
Novorossiysk has long been a vital energy and logistics hub for Russia, particularly for its Black Sea-based infrastructure. As such, it has frequently been targeted by Ukrainian missile and drone strikes. Ukrainian officials have stated that Russia’s refineries and petrochemical plants are considered legitimate military targets, as they directly support Russia’s war efforts against Ukraine.
Coastal Infrastructure Damaged, Civilian Vessel Struck
The Krasnodar Krai Operational Headquarters confirmed that the terminal was hit, damaging several coastal facilities. Local media also reported that a civilian vessel docked at the port was struck in the attack, injuring three crew members.
Kyiv’s Response: “Russia Attacks Civilian Targets, We Target Military”
Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Centre for Countering Disinformation, shared images of the aftermath on Telegram, writing, “This is the oil terminal in Novorossiysk after the strike. Meanwhile, Russia continues targeting residential buildings and energy infrastructure.”
Zelenskyy Claims Decline in Russia’s Oil Production
Earlier this week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted on social media, stating that for the first time since the war began, Russia’s oil production and refining capabilities have shown a noticeable decline. Zelenskyy also claimed that Russia will lose at least $37 billion in oil and gas revenues by the end of this year.
Russian Retaliation: Massive Drone Attack on Kyiv
In retaliation for the Novorossiysk strike, Russia launched a wave of drones and missiles at Kyiv late Friday. The attack resulted in six deaths, 14 injuries, and widespread damage to residential buildings, some of which caught fire.
Source: News Agencies
