President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday that Ukraine conducted a "successful destruction" of a Russian port in the Baltic region using drones. The attack, which hit the port of Ust-Luga in the Leningrad region, marks the first major Ukrainian strike on Russia's Baltic coast since the start of the full-scale invasion. The port is a key hub for oil and gas exports, particularly to European markets.
Russia has warned that the strike could lead to higher global oil prices, as the facility is critical for shipping crude and petroleum products. Local authorities reported no casualties, but the attack caused significant damage to infrastructure. Zelenskyy did not specify the exact target, but Ukrainian officials have increasingly focused on disrupting Russia's energy exports to reduce funding for its war effort.
The operation comes amid a broader Ukrainian campaign to strike deep inside Russian territory, including oil depots and military airfields. Analysts suggest Kyiv is aiming to demonstrate its ability to strike strategic assets far from the front lines.