Ukrainian drones have struck one of Russia's largest oil refineries in the Leningrad region, sparking a fire that underscores Kyiv's campaign against Moscow's war machine amid the three-year conflict.

The attack targets the Kirishi facility, operated by Surgutneftegas and producing 17.7 million metric tonnes annually (355,000 barrels per day), ranking among Russia's top three. Ukraine's General Staff confirms the hit, posting images of flames and smoke, with explosions reported.

Regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko states three drones were downed, but debris ignited the blaze, which was extinguished without injuries.

Russia's Defence Ministry reports downing 80 Ukrainian drones overnight across Russia, Crimea, and the Sea of Azov, but offers no details on Kirishi's impact.

This assault follows weeks of Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, which Kyiv blames for fueling the invasion. Russia, the world's second-largest oil exporter, faces gasoline shortages from seasonal demand and attacks, leading to export pauses until September 30 and partial bans to October 31, with rationing in some areas.