Official statements from Kristall plant or Russian authorities, verified news reports

Ukrainian Drones Strike Russian Oil Depot in Engels, Causing Major Fire

Jan 8, 2025, 01:57 AM

Ukrainian drones attacked an oil depot in the city of Engels, located in Russia's Saratov region, causing a significant fire at the facility. The depot, known as the 'Kristall' plant, supplies fuel to the Engels-2 military airfield, which is a base for Russia's strategic aviation, including Tu-95 and Tu-160 bombers. The attack occurred overnight, with the first explosions reported around 3 am local time. Saratov region Governor Roman Busargin confirmed the incident, stating that the fire was caused by debris from a downed drone during a massive drone attack on the cities of Saratov and Engels. No injuries were reported, and emergency services responded to the scene to manage the fire. The Russian Defense Ministry reported intercepting 11 drones in the Saratov region during the attack.