Ukrainian Drone Attack Sparks Fire at Russian Oil Port of Ust-Luga

A Ukrainian drone attack sparked a fire at the Russian oil port of Ust-Luga on the Baltic Sea, according to the governor of the Leningrad region. The port is a key export hub for Russian gas, oil, fertilizers, and coal. Governor Alexander Drozdenko reported that 146 drones were neutralized overnight in the region, with firefighting operations ongoing. The attack caused over 18 flight cancellations or delays at Pulkovo Airport, which serves Saint Petersburg. Ukraine has intensified drone strikes on Russian energy infrastructure over the past 18 months to reduce Kremlin revenues. The attacks coincide with US-mediated negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Abu Dhabi, where President Zelensky discussed a potential large prisoner exchange.