a large factory with a lot of smoke coming out of it

Ukrainian Drones Set Moscow Refinery Ablaze

worldJun 22, 2026·340 words·3 min read

Ukraine launched one of its largest drone assaults on Moscow since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, striking the Moscow Oil Refinery in the south-eastern Kapotnya district before dawn on Thursday. It was the second time in a week that the strategically vital facility had been hit, and fires sent thick black smoke billowing over the capital. Residents of affected districts told reporters that a fine drizzle had left "unpleasant black spots" on their clothes, while verified videos showed an oily sheen coating cars and pavements.

The attack is part of Ukraine's plan to take the war deep into Russia and damage the energy industry that pays for the fighting. President Zelenskyy called it revenge. He warned, "If Ukraine is going to burn, your Moscow will burn too." He also wants Russia's President Putin to agree to peace talks. Russia said its forces shot down 555 Ukrainian drones overnight, but this could not be checked. Putin made no public comment.

The attack also caused problems across the city. Four airports closed for a while, and more than 500 flights were cancelled or delayed. Drone parts hurt at least 16 people, including two children. Some gas stations in Russia have started to limit fuel sales.

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