Ukrainian drones hit Omsk in Siberia on Saturday, causing a large fire

Ukrainian drones attacked the Russian city of Omsk in Siberia on Saturday, more than 2,500 kilometres from Ukraine's border. Footage shared on social media shows large flames and smoke above an industrial area of the city. The strike shows Ukraine's ability to reach strategic facilities deep inside Russian territory.

Vitaly Khotsenko, governor of the Omsk region, confirmed that unmanned aircraft had attacked the region and that Russian air defences were trying to repel them. He later said the drones had reached the city's northern industrial district, home to several strategically important oil refining and chemical companies. Emergency services are working at the scene.

Possible target

Local residents reported explosions and a powerful fire in the northern part of the city on social media. Ukrainian monitoring channels say the target may have been the Omsk Kauchuk chemical plant, which produces synthetic rubber and other petrochemical products. There is no official confirmation yet that this company was hit.

Consequences

Flight arrivals and departures at Omsk airport were temporarily suspended because of the attack. Local authorities urged residents to stay calm, follow safety measures and keep away from places where drone debris could fall. Information on casualties and the extent of the damage has not yet been confirmed.

Background

Omsk is one of Russia's most important industrial centres in Siberia. It is home to one of the country's largest oil refineries, which has previously been a target of Ukrainian drone attacks. A fire was also reported in the same industrial area after a drone strike on 8 October.