Ukraine Blasts Russian Chemical Plant, Oil Refinery

Ukraine launched large airstrikes late Saturday and into Sunday that struck a chemical plant and an oil refinery inside Russia, authorities confirmed, as Russia tested a new hypersonic cruise missile during joint exercises with Belarus, Adam Schrader reported for United Press International (UPI).

The plant hit was reportedly operated by Metafrax Chemicals. (Photo: Metafrax Chemicals)

Dmitry Makhonin, governor of Russia's Perm Krai territory, said in a statement that a Ukrainian drone flew into an industrial building in Gubakha.

He claimed no casualties were reported and that the chemical plant continued to operate normally. “I appeal to all residents of the region: refrain from publishing photos and videos of the drone,” he said.

“By posting such information on social networks, you are helping the enemy, who has made another pathetic attempt to intimidate us. They will not succeed. Victory will be ours.”

But a Ukrainian military intelligence source told The Kyiv Independent that equipment used for urea production was damaged. Urea, a nitrogen fertilizer, is also used to manufacture explosives.

Independent Russian outlet Astra reported that the plant hit was operated by Metafrax Chemicals, which is under British and Ukrainian sanctions. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed that it had struck the Kirish oil refinery in Russia’s Leningrad region.