Ukrainian forces conducted a drone strike on an oil depot near the city of Engels in Russia’s Saratov region. The target, identified as the Kristall Complex, supplies fuel to the nearby Engels-2 airbase, home to Russia’s strategic bombers, including nuclear-capable Tu-95 and Tu-160 aircraft.
The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the operation, describing it as a coordinated effort involving military intelligence and drone units. Multiple explosions were reported, with social media users and local Telegram channels claiming to hear as many as 30 blasts.
Saratov Governor Roman Busargin acknowledged damage to an industrial facility but stated there were no injuries. Busargin said sufficient resources were deployed to contain the fire.
A massive fire is raging in Engels after a morning drone strike targeted an oil depot. The blaze is consuming fuel that the Russians use for their bombers. pic.twitter.com/NWcYVci60t
— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated) January 8, 2025
Fire rages at oil depot in Russia’s Engels military base (1000km from Ukraine) following Ukrainian drones strike.
Fire is reportedly spreading & engulfing tanks.Two emergency workers have died & a state of emergency is declared.#Russia pic.twitter.com/C7ckFjHD58
— Global Nexus (@GlobalNexus7) January 8, 2025
Moscow’s Defense Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday that it had intercepted 32 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 11 over the Saratov region, but reported no damage.
The Engels-2 airbase, approximately 300 miles from the Ukrainian border, is a key site for Russia’s long-range aviation forces, housing bombers that have been used to launch missile attacks on Ukraine. The Kristall Complex is vital for fueling these aircraft.
Ukrainian officials stated the strike would disrupt Russia’s ability to conduct further air raids on Ukrainian cities.
