Ukraine's strikes on oil depots, airports threaten Russian bombers: military expert on Saratov attacks

He made this statement on Espreso TV.

"Last year, our long-range drones carried out 80 significant attacks on Russian targets. In January alone, there were 20 such strikes, half of them targeting Russia’s oil refining, energy, and military infrastructure. February is already showing a higher pace, as more drones are involved in strike operations," Zgurets said.

According to him, the targets in Saratov and its surrounding areas include oil refineries along the Volga River. The latest strikes hit the Saratov oil refinery and the Kristal base, where fuel for Russian Tu-160 and Tu-95 bombers is stored.

"In January, at least two strikes were launched on the Kristal base, destroying 14 tanks — four burned out completely, and the rest were rendered useless. That means just two strikes wiped out 20% of the base's fuel reserves. The Saratov Oil Refinery is one of Russia’s largest, processing up to 7 million tons per year. Right now, it’s on fire. We’ll see the full impact later, but this isn’t the first time the facility has been hit. And across the river is the Engels airbase, home to Russia’s strategic bombers," Zgurets explained.

He added that coordinated strikes on oil depots and airfields pose a serious threat to Russia’s ability to use its bombers.

"The impact on Russia’s bombing strategy has been felt for a while. But we know that systematic, large-scale attacks must continue," Zgurets emphasized.

• On the night of February 11, Ukrainian forces struck the Saratov Oil Refinery, which handles complex oil processing.