Ukrainian drones strike one of Russia's top oil refineries, sparking fire

Ukrainian drones overnight struck one of Russia's largest oil refineries, sparking a fire, according to Russian officials and Ukraine's military.

The strike on the Kirishi refinery, in Russia's northwestern Leningrad region, follows weeks of Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure that Kyiv says fuels Moscow's war effort. The facility produces close to 17.7 million metric tonnes per year, or 355,000 barrels per day, of crude.

According to Ukraine's General Staff, explosions and a fire were reported at the site. It posted a photo appearing to show a blaze and clouds of smoke against a night sky.

Regional Gov. Alexander Drozdenko said three drones were downed overnight in the Kirishi area, with falling debris sparking a fire at the facility. He said no one was injured, and the blaze was put out.

Russian officials did not immediately comment on the consequences of the strike.

Russia remains the world's second largest oil exporter, but a seasonal rise in demand and sustained Ukrainian drone strikes have caused gasoline shortages in recent weeks.

Gas stations have run dry in some regions of the country, with motorists waiting in long lines and officials resorting to rationing or cutting off sales altogether.

To try to ease the shortage, Russia has paused gasoline exports, with officials Wednesday declaring a full ban until September 30 and a partial ban affecting traders and intermediaries until October 31.