Radiy Khabirov, head of the Bashkortostan region, reported that a Ukrainian drone hit the Ufa oil refinery on 13/9. Another drone was shot down. Social media videos show the drone flying towards the facility and exploding into a fireball. "There were no casualties. The refinery experienced a fire with minor damage," Khabirov said.

Located on the outskirts of Ufa city, approximately 1,400 km from the Ukrainian front lines, the refinery is one of Russia's largest, producing 150 types of petroleum products. The facility is owned by Bashneft.

Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Kyiv has targeted Russian oil refineries, impacting oil processing capacity at several key facilities.

Russia-Ukraine peace talks resumed in May, facilitated by President Trump. While both Russian and Ukrainian leaders initially expressed openness to negotiations, subsequent developments suggest the prospects for peace remain fragile.

Ufa oil refinery in Ufa city, Bashkortostan region, central Russia. Photo: _Reuters_

On 2/9, President Trump expressed his "great disappointment" that Putin had not yet reached a peace agreement with Ukraine. Zelensky accused Russia of obstructing a summit between the two countries' leaders, while Moscow stated the agenda for such a meeting was not yet ready.

President Putin warned Russia would continue its military campaign to end the conflict in Ukraine if a peace agreement isn't reached. On 12/9, the Kremlin announced a "pause" in peace talks and accused Europe of hindering efforts to end the war.

Location of the Bashkortostan region in central Russia. Graphic: _Britannica_

President Trump stated his patience with Putin is wearing thin, warning that the US "may take strong action." On 13/9, he declared he would sanction Moscow if NATO members followed suit and stopped buying Russian oil.

Duc Trung (According to AFP, TASS)