Russian Refinery in Volgograd Attacked
VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA – A drone attack targeted a refinery in Volgograd, Russia, on February 2, 2024, causing a fire, according to regional authorities.
The refinery, owned by Lukoil, one of Russia’s largest oil companies, experienced a fire following the drone strike. Emergency services are working to contain the blaze. No casualties have been immediately reported.
Ukraine has not claimed obligation for the attack, but it comes amid a series of similar incidents targeting Russian oil facilities. These attacks are part of a broader Ukrainian strategy to disrupt Russia’s energy infrastructure and war effort.
Russia has experienced an increasing number of drone attacks on its territory in recent months, including strikes on Moscow and other major cities. These attacks have raised concerns about the escalating conflict and the potential for further escalation.
Volgograd is a major industrial center in southern Russia, strategically located on the volga River. The city was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, known as the Battle of Stalingrad.
Elsewhere:
Latvia delivered another 21 Patria 6×6 transport tanks to Ukraine on February 2, 2024, bringing the total number of such vehicles provided this year to 42. Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal received the vehicles at the Adazi military base in Latvia.Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds stated the handover “demonstrates the friendship, the partnership and our willingness to contribute as much as possible.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned against attempts to “decolonize” Russia, describing it as a plot to break up the Russian Federation and create a territory subject to Western control. He spoke at a meeting on nationality policy in Moscow, alleging an “ideology of aggressive Russophobia” aimed at undermining the Russian people.
