A fire broke out at an oil refinery in northwestern Russia, near the city of Ukhta in the Komi Republic, resulting in deaths and injuries, according to local officials. The incident occurred during scheduled technical work by a contractor at the facility.
Regional investigators have opened a criminal case on suspicion of negligence in connection with the fire. While the exact number of casualties has not been confirmed, at least three people were reported injured. The authorities have not provided details on the total number of deaths.
The investigative department stated on Telegram that the fire resulted in fatalities and injuries. The specific company that owns the refinery has not been disclosed by local officials, but images released by the emergencies ministry show the logo of oil giant Lukoil.
Regional Governor Vladimir Uyba clarified that the fire was not caused by a Ukrainian drone strike, which has been a recent concern due to increased attacks on Russian refineries and oil terminals. Despite the ongoing investigation, it remains unclear whether the fire has been fully extinguished at the oil refinery.
