A series of explosions rocked the Russian cities of Saratov and Engels early on Tuesday, Nov. 11, with social media reporting a fire at the Saratov oil refinery.
According to Russian Telegram channels, air defenses were on high alert in both cities amid the threat of drone attacks. Local residents reported hearing between five and seven loud explosions after 1 a.m.
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Eyewitnesses said that flares were visible in the southwest of Saratov and that the sound of drone engines could be heard overhead.
Saratov Region Governor Roman Busargin confirmed the threat of UAV attacks, and Rosaviatsia imposed temporary flight restrictions at Saratov airport.
In a Telegram post at 8.22 a.m., Busargin wrote that the drone attack shattered windows in several houses in the Zavodsky district, injuring one person who did not require hospitalization.
“Specialists are inspecting the entire area to eliminate any danger. Once all safety measures are complete, residents will be able to return home. If necessary, citizens will be provided with free hotel accommodation,” Busargin said.
After 8 a.m., Telegram channels reported renewed explosions in Saratov, though local authorities have not commented on the alleged second attack.
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Saratov hosts a refinery that produces over 20 types of petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, bitumen, and sulfur.
The region is also home to the Engels air base, from which Russian bombers are regularly launched for missile strikes on Ukraine.
According to Russia’s Ministry of Defense, air defense units overnight intercepted and destroyed 37 Ukrainian aircraft-type drones – 10 over occupied Crimea, 8 over Saratov region, and 7 over Oryol region.
Ukraine has not confirmed its involvement in the attack.
Meanwhile, Odesa Regional Head Oleh Kiper reported that Russia launched a massive drone strike on southern Ukraine overnight.
“Despite the active work of our air defense, there is damage to civilian energy and transport infrastructure,” Kiper said. “Fires broke out at several energy facilities but were quickly extinguished. The Ukrzaliznytsia depot and administrative buildings were also damaged.”
According to preliminary reports, one person sustained shrapnel wounds and received medical treatment.
Critical infrastructure in the region is currently operating on generators, and “points of invincibility” have been opened for residents, Kiper added.