Ukraine and Russia eye new peace talks – and Melania Trump’s mission – but steep obstacles remain

On October 24, Ukrainian forces targeted the Tolyatti rubber plant and an aircraft at the Yeysk airfield in Russia's Krasnodar Krai, according to the country's General Staff. The General Staff reported an explosion and fire near the Tolyatti rubber plant, which manufactures synthetic rubbers, monomers, and high-octane gasoline additives.

Synthetic rubbers are essential for creating solid rocket fuel used in tactical and ballistic missiles; thus, damage to this facility disrupts the supply chain for Russia's missile program. Telegram monitoring channels had earlier reported fires at various plants in Tolyatti following a night of drone attacks. Videos captured by locals showed smoke over the city and claims of an attack on the Tolyatti chemical plant, leading to evacuations at the AvtoVAZ car manufacturing facility.

Another Telegram channel, Exilenova+, reported a military-purpose plant on fire, though the specific industry was not identified. Tolyatti, located about 1,300 kilometers from Kyiv, has been a frequent Ukrainian target, with attacks on the plant on September 12 and additional strikes on April 4. The extent of damage to the aircraft at Yeysk airfield remains unclear.

While the Kyiv Independent could not independently verify these claims, it is noted that both Russia and Ukraine have escalated attacks on businesses aiding each other's war efforts in recent months. Kyiv has targeted companies supporting Russia through long-range drone strikes, while Moscow has indiscriminately destroyed critical infrastructure, including food logistics, postal services, and public transport, resulting in civilian casualties.