For the first time since the beginning of the war, Ukraine carried out drone strikes on Russia’s largest oil terminal at the northwestern port of Primorsk. The SBU Security Service reported that the attack caused fires on vessels and pumping stations, temporarily suspending loading operations.
Reuters, citing two industry sources and Ukraine’s military, confirmed the strike set fire to two vessels, marking the first disruption of loading at the terminal.
Last night, Ukraine’s Security Service struck Russia’s largest Baltic oil terminal in Primorsk — a key hub for the Kremlin’s “shadow fleet” that bypasses sanctions and exports up to 60 million tons of oil annually, worth about $15 billion.
The attack ignited fires on a vessel… pic.twitter.com/eGdfz1T5j6
— KyivPost (@KyivPost) September 12, 2025
Russian Response
The Russian governor of the region stated that a drone attack had caused fire on one vessel and a pumping station, but no suspension of operations was reported.
The Primorsk terminal is a crucial hub for Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which bypasses sanctions to export up to 60 million tons of oil annually, valued at around $15 billion. Analysts estimate that the attack could cost Russia up to $41 million per day in lost revenue.
Broader Drone Activity in the Region
Earlier this week, multiple Russian drones were reported over Poland. Russian armed forces stated they were not targeting Poland, while Belarus suggested the drones may have veered off course, possibly due to jamming.
Additional Strikes
The SBU also targeted several pumping stations feeding the Ust-Luga terminal, further disrupting Russia’s oil exports in the Baltic region. The attack highlights Ukraine’s growing drone capabilities and the strategic importance of Primorsk in global energy supply.
