MOSCOW – Ukrainian forces conducted an extensive drone assault on the Russian Black Sea port city of Tuapse on Monday, resulting in one death and triggering fires at the strategic facility, according to Russian authorities. The strike occurred just days after firefighters extinguished blazes from a previous drone attack on April 16.
The targeted port serves as a crucial oil export terminal for Russia and handles various cargo including coal and fertilizers. The facility also houses a significant oil refinery operated by Rosneft.
Krasnodar region Governor Veniamin Kondratiev announced on Telegram that “Tuapse was subjected to another massive drone attack” and confirmed that “a fire occurred at the seaport.”
According to Kondratiev, the assault claimed the life of one man at the port facility while injuring another worker. Falling drone debris caused damage throughout the city, striking a kindergarten, elementary school, church, and apartment buildings.
Russian defense officials reported intercepting and destroying 112 Ukrainian drones during the overnight operation.
