The strike, which Ukraine’s general staff indicated occurred on Friday, is part of a series of recent attacks aimed at Russian drilling sites in the Caspian Sea, marking the first officially acknowledged by the Ukrainian military.
According to the Ukrainian military, the Filanovsky oil rig sustained damage during the attack, having previously faced drone assaults at least twice in December.
Reuters could not independently verify the report. Lukoil did not respond immediately for comment.
Ukraine asserts that Russian oil infrastructure is a valid target, arguing that the revenue from these operations is the primary source of funding for Russia’s nearly four-year-long war against Ukraine.
The general staff also mentioned that a military patrol ship was hit in the strike, with damage assessments ongoing.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, Ukraine has been targeting Russian oil refineries but has significantly expanded its offensive in recent weeks, taking responsibility for drone attacks on vessels from Russia’s shadow fleet in both the Black Sea and Mediterranean.
