Moscow, Jun 19 (V7N) – An unprecedented Ukrainian drone attack on a major oil refinery in Moscow has triggered environmental concerns after residents reported black, oily particles falling from the sky with rain across the Russian capital and nearby areas.
Local residents said ash and fuel residue from the burning refinery spread with rainfall on Friday, covering roads, vehicles and the rooftops of high-rise buildings with a slippery black layer. Russian authorities initially rejected claims that the incident represented an environmental disaster.
The reported contamination followed a large-scale drone attack by Ukrainian forces on Thursday, involving around 200 drones targeting Moscow. The Kapotnya oil refinery in the southeastern part of the capital was identified as the main target.
According to reports, a drone struck a large oil storage tank at the facility, triggering a massive explosion. The impact caused extensive fires, with thick black smoke spreading over parts of Moscow.
Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry said its forces had intercepted and destroyed more than 1,000 Ukrainian drones and at least four cruise missiles within a 24-hour period. Authorities also reported injuries after drone debris fell in residential areas, while operations at Moscow's major airports were temporarily suspended due to security concerns.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the strike, describing it as a "just retaliation" in response to Russia's ongoing military actions.
The incident has intensified concerns over the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and the wider environmental impact of attacks targeting energy facilities during the ongoing conflict.
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