Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1713: Ukraine hits Samara Oil hub blending up to half of Russian crude exports
Russia struck a school in Komyshuvakha, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, where civilians had been receiving aid, killing 26 people.
On day 1713 of the Russo-Ukrainian war, Ukraine launched a drone attack on Russia's Samara oil hub, which processes up to half of Russia's oil exports. The attack was the first of its kind since October 11. Ukraine's General Staff confirmed the station blends a crude grade accounting for as much as half of Russia's oil exports. This marks the growing significance of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces, with colonel Kyrylo Veres noting that their establishment in 2024 is proving effective.
Drone technology has improved, allowing Ukraine to reach regions previously inaccessible due to Russia's use of drone swarms and Starlink jammers. Following a Turkish meeting, Zelenskyy expressed interest in collaborating with Türkiye on developing satellite technology. Russia has been enhancing its drone capabilities, incorporating anti-jam antennas and cameras capable of outmaneuvering Ukraine's defenses.
However, Ukraine may face a prolonged wait for Patriot missiles from China and the US, potentially receiving them only in years. Reports also highlight Russian drone upgrades, including the addition of anti-jam antennas and improved camera systems, which have been spotted near Poland. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to face challenges, with allegations of American media figures being indirectly financed by Russia, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in occupied Kherson Oblast, where civilians remain trapped or killed.
Written by urgent.news from Euromaidan Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
