Ukrainian forces reportedly conducted a series of strikes overnight on February 18-19, 2026, targeting an oil depot in Russia's Pskov Oblast and launching missiles at the city of Belgorod, leading to significant damage and power disruptions. These actions are part of Ukraine's ongoing campaign to target military and energy infrastructure within Russian territory.
Oil Depot Ablaze in Pskov Oblast
In the early hours of February 19, 2026, a drone attack ignited a large fire at an oil depot in Velikiye Luki, a city in Russia's Pskov Oblast. The targeted facility was identified as the Velikiye Luki oil depot, owned by Pskovnefteprodukt, which stores various petroleum products including diesel and gasoline. Reports indicate that the fuel tanks at the depot were equipped with anti-drone protective nets, but these defenses were reportedly breached by the attacking drones.
A source from Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) informed The Kyiv Independent that their 'Alpha' UAV unit was responsible for the strike, stating that 'Such operations are an element of systematic weakening of the military potential of the Russian Federation.' Pskov region governor Mikhail Vedernikov confirmed the drone attack and the subsequent fire, noting that preliminary data indicated no casualties. The oil depot is located approximately 500 kilometers from Ukraine's state border.
Belgorod Experiences Power Outages Following Missile Strikes
Concurrently, the Russian city of Belgorod and parts of its surrounding oblast experienced power outages and damage to energy infrastructure following what local officials described as a 'massive missile attack' overnight on February 18-19, 2026. Belgorod Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov stated that energy facilities in the city sustained 'major damages,' resulting in a partial loss of electricity and heat.
Earlier on February 18, a Ukrainian missile strike reportedly disabled the Mychurinskaya gas-turbine combined heat and power plant (CHP) in Belgorod, leading to electricity disruptions in several city districts by morning. Belgorod, situated just 34 kilometers (21 miles) from Ukraine's northeastern border, has been a frequent target throughout the ongoing conflict. Previous incidents in February 2026 also saw blackouts and heating outages in the region due to alleged attacks on key energy infrastructure, including thermal power plants and electrical substations.
Context of Cross-Border Attacks
These recent strikes align with Ukraine's stated strategy of targeting Russian military and energy infrastructure, which Kyiv views as directly supporting Moscow's war efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously acknowledged and praised Ukrainian forces for hitting military targets inside Russia. Russian authorities have consistently reported Ukrainian drone and missile attacks on their territory, particularly in border regions like Belgorod.
6 Comments
Michelangelo
While Ukraine has every right to defend itself and target military logistics, the impact on civilian populations from power outages is a concerning aspect of this escalation.
Donatello
On one hand, disrupting fuel supplies is a key tactic in modern warfare against an invading force. On the other, the article highlights significant power disruptions for civilians, which is always a difficult consequence to justify.
Michelangelo
These strikes demonstrate Ukraine's growing capabilities to reach deep into Russian territory. Yet, one must wonder if such actions truly hasten the end of the conflict or merely intensify the tit-for-tat violence.
Donatello
It's understandable that Ukraine wants to disrupt Russia's war machine, but these deep strikes risk a dangerous cycle of retaliation that could further destabilize the region.
Michelangelo
Excellent! Hit them where it hurts. This is how you win a war.
Bermudez
Hitting oil depots clearly impacts Russia's military supply chain, which is a strategic goal. However, the consistent targeting of energy grids in populated areas raises questions about humanitarian impact.