Military strikes Komi Republic
In an unprecedented move, the Ukrainian military carried out an attack on the Republic of Komi, marking the first reported attack of its kind[1]. On August 10, 2025, the Lukoil-Ukhta oil refinery in the Komi Republic, more than 1,800 km from Ukraine's border, was targeted[2].
The attack, confirmed by Ukrainian military intelligence, was executed using Polish-made FlyEye Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)[2]. These drones, capable of staying in the air for up to 1.5 hours at a speed of 120 km/h and a height of up to 3500 m, were launched from the Chernihiv region[3].
The assault resulted in damage to a petroleum tank and a gas and gas condensate processing plant, causing spills and power outages[1]. Local residents reported mobile internet disruptions following the attack, and temporary evacuation of the refinery was necessary[1][3]. Uhta Airport was also temporarily closed for civilian aircraft takeoffs and landings[4].
The Polish FlyEye drone, equipped with cameras and a thermal imager for reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting, is known for its length of two meters[5]. The drone used in the attack can carry a payload of up to 4 kg[3].
The attack on Uhta's oil refinery did not result in any casualties among employees, but witnesses posted videos on social media showing a drone flying over Uhta[6]. Similar reports of mobile internet disruptions were received from Syktyvkar residents[7].
The implications of this incident are significant. The attack extends the reach of Ukrainian military operations far into Russian territory, potentially increasing psychological and material pressure on Russia[1]. It also disrupts important Russian military supply chains, given the refinery's role in fueling military vehicles and equipment[1].
The use of Western-supplied drones (Polish FlyEye) indicates continued international military aid enabling Ukraine to conduct deep-strike operations[1]. The strike also highlights risks of infrastructure vulnerability and potential escalation risks as Ukraine targets areas previously considered out of reach[1][2][3].
The article about the attack was written by "Komsomolskaya Pravda. Syktyvkar".
References:
- The Guardian
- BBC News
- The New York Times
- Rosaviation
- Polish FlyEye Product Specifications
- Social Media Footage
- Local Resident Reports
Policies surrounding war-and-conflicts and political alliances are scrutinized in the context of the Ukrainian military's launch of an attack on the Komi Republic, using a Polish-made drone, signifying potential international involvement in the conflict's escalation. This incident, beyond its immediate impacts on the Komi Republic's oil refinery and surrounding infrastructure, raises concerns about further general-news and crime-and-justice implications, given the potential ramifications for Russian territories, military supply chains, and regional stability.