Russian Drone Attack Targets Azerbaijani Oil Facility in Ukraine
In the early hours of July 8, Russian forces launched a drone strike using five “Shahed” drones against an oil depot operated by the Azerbaijani company Socar in Odesa region. The assault resulted in a fire, damage to pipelines, and left four employees injured, according to law enforcement reports.
The injuries sustained by the workers are serious, with medical assistance administered on-site. Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage and initiating recovery efforts.
While official investigation reports are yet to be released, law enforcement officials noted that the use of five drones indicates the oil depot was a primary target during the attack.
This incident marks the second targeted strike on critical infrastructure in Ukraine associated with Azerbaijan in recent times. A previous strike was reported on the Orlivka gas distribution station near the Romanian border, which is a crucial component of the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline intended for gas transit from Azerbaijan to Ukraine.
Analysts highlight the significant risk of further attacks on Socar facilities in Ukraine, exacerbated by escalating tensions between Moscow and Baku, alongside recent references to Azerbaijani assets as “legitimate targets” in pro-Russian media.
Socar is a state-owned company of Azerbaijan. Relations between Baku and Moscow continue to deteriorate following the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft and reciprocal detentions of citizens. Notably, the drone strike occurred on the same day as a peace treaty signing between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Washington. This event underscores Russia’s challenges in relinquishing its spheres of influence in the region.
Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump is set to meet with the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia today at the White House for the signing of a peace agreement that could potentially bring an end to decades of conflict between the two nations.
