Ukrainian Drone Strike Hits Russia’s Yaroslavl Oil Refinery for Third Known Time

A major Ukrainian drone attack reportedly targeted the Slavneft-Yaroslavnefteorgsintez refinery, known as YANOS, in Yaroslavl during the night of November 2–3, 2026. Located approximately 250 kilometres northeast of Moscow, the facility processes around 15 million metric tons of crude oil annually and produces gasoline, diesel, fuel oil and aviation fuel.

Regional Governor Mikhail Yevrayev reported that 124 drones were repelled, two refinery employees were injured and infrastructure was damaged. Despite claims that air defenses intercepted the incoming drones, fires broke out at the refinery and emergency crews worked to extinguish them. Reuters confirmed reports of the fire and damage, although the full operational impact remains unclear.

The incident marks the third known attack on YANOS, following earlier strikes, including one on September 17 that reportedly damaged its AVT-3 crude-processing unit. Repeated attacks on major refineries can disrupt fuel production, complicate repairs and increase pressure on Russia’s domestic energy supply and military logistics.

The wider campaign also included reported strikes on the Kstovo refinery and other targets, while drone activity disrupted operations around Moscow’s airports. However, the reported drone totals vary because officials cited different geographic areas and interception figures.

YANOS has not been confirmed destroyed. The key questions are whether production has stopped, how extensive the damage is and how quickly the facility can resume normal operations.