Ukraine launched fresh strikes on Russian energy facilities overnight into Sunday, according to Russian authorities and media, while Kyiv denied claims that a Ukrainian drone struck the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
Drone debris set fire to a fuel storage facility in Russia's southwestern Rostov region, prompting the evacuation of nearby homes, Governor Yuriy Slyusar reported. In Saratov province, drones damaged civilian infrastructure, and an independent Russian news channel said an oil refinery was ablaze in the regional capital, Saratov.
Ukraine has intensified attacks on Russian oil and gas facilities in recent months, arguing the energy sector funds and fuels Moscow's invasion. Meanwhile, Kyiv dismissed Russia's accusation that a Ukrainian drone hit the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, calling it a “propaganda ploy.” Ukraine's military stated it adheres to international humanitarian law and did not target the plant.
Russia's state nuclear company, Rosatom, claimed a Ukrainian drone tore a hole in a turbine hall wall and exploded, but said main equipment was undamaged. The International Atomic Energy Agency's Rafael Grossi expressed “serious concern.” Ukraine's nuclear supervisory agency urged verification by IAEA experts at the site.
Elsewhere, Ukraine's air force reported shooting down 212 of 299 Russian drones overnight, with 14 reaching targets. Russian drones struck Dnipro and an oil refinery in Rivne region, causing fires but no injuries, authorities said.
