In the early hours of October 13, 2025, Ukrainian drones targeted the largest Russian-operated oil depot in Feodosia, Crimea, resulting in a significant fire that has drawn international attention.
Attack Details
According to a source within Ukraine Security Service (SBU), the strike involved multiple drones hitting at least five fuel storage tanks at the facility. The resulting blaze was visible from various parts of the city, with thick black smoke rising from the depot. Additionally, electricity substations in both Feodosia and Simferopol were reportedly struck during the same operation.
The Feodosia oil depot is a critical infrastructure site, capable of holding up to 250,000 tons of fuel. It serves as a major transshipment hub for oil and oil products between rail tankers, sea vessels, and road transport, supplying Russian military forces in the region.
Russian Response
In response to the attack, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed that its air defenses intercepted 103 drones overnight across Russian and occupied Ukrainian territories, including 40 over Crimea. However, the ministry did not confirm the extent of the damage at the Feodosia facility.
Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-backed head of Crimea, confirmed that emergency services were responding to the site and reported no casualties from the incident.
Strategic Implications
This attack marks the second on the Feodosia oil depot within a week, with a previous strike occurring on October 6. Ukrainian forces have consistently targeted Russian energy infrastructure as part of their strategy to disrupt Russia’s military logistics and economic resources. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi noted that Russian oil processing capacity has declined by 21% due to such attacks, leading to fuel shortages in several Russian regions.
The ongoing drone operations underscore Ukraine’s commitment to weakening Russia’s logistical and economic capabilities in the occupied territories. As the conflict persists, both sides continue to engage in strategic strikes aimed at critical infrastructure, with significant implications for regional stability and international relations.
