MOSCOW: The Kremlin, on Monday, accused Ukraine of orchestrating an attack that resulted in a fire at a gas terminal in the Baltic port of Ust-Luga during the weekend. The gas facility, owned by Novatek, Russia’s primary exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), was set ablaze in the western port town, near the border with Estonia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in response to the incident, criticized the Ukrainian government, stating, “The Kyiv regime continues to show its bestial face. They are striking civil infrastructure, people.” Notably, the gas terminal is situated more than 850 kilometers (530 miles) away from Ukraine.
This marks the latest in a series of apparent attacks by Ukraine on Russia’s energy infrastructure. In the preceding week, Kyiv had claimed responsibility for two other assaults, including one in the Leningrad region, where Ust-Luga is located.
Both Russia and Ukraine have been employing explosive-laden drones in attempts to target locations far beyond the frontlines. Their armed forces frequently report successful interceptions of enemy devices over their respective territories. Peskov assured that the defense ministry and air defense resources are implementing necessary measures to counter such attacks.
Local authorities reported no injuries resulting from the fire, which had engulfed the facility on Sunday morning. They confirmed the successful evacuation of all personnel from the site. Additionally, the Kremlin labeled an attack on Donetsk, claiming it killed at least 27 people, as an act of “terrorism.” The city, controlled by Russia and purportedly annexed, experienced artillery fire in a suburb, striking a crowded market, according to local officials.
Peskov stated on Monday that the “special military operation” would persist to protect the people from perceived threats, employing Moscow’s preferred language to describe its comprehensive military offensive in Ukraine.
