Shocking images and videos from Ryazan — a city in central Russia about 200 kilometers southwest of Moscow — show thick black smoke billowing into the sky after a major fire broke out at the region’s oil refinery. The blaze was triggered by a Ukrainian drone strike, according to multiple sources.
Ukrainian Forces Confirm Attack
The attack was confirmed today (May 15, 2026) by Robert Brovdi, commander of Ukraine’s drone forces. He stated that Ukrainian units struck 23 military targets and facilities across Russia — including in occupied territories of Ukraine — during overnight operations.
Casualties and Damage
According to Ryazan’s regional governor, three people were killed and 12 others injured in the drone assault. Two residential buildings were damaged, including the ‘Tricolor’ residential complex — an ironic detail given its name. The Ryazan oil refinery, one of Russia’s largest and located more than 460 kilometers from Ukraine’s border, was also hit.
Broader Military Impact
The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the refinery strike and noted that a large fire erupted at the facility. In addition, Ukrainian forces reportedly struck a small missile boat and a minesweeper at the Caspian Sea naval base in Kaspiysk.