(VELIKIYE LUKI, PSKOV OBLAST) – Ukrainian defence forces successfully demilitarised the Velikolukska military oil depot during the night of 19 February. The facility, which serves as a primary storage site for fuel destined for the Russian army rather than public consumption, was targeted by long range drones. Initial video footage of the aftermath confirms a significant fire at the installation. While the total number of destroyed tanks remains under assessment, the scale of the blaze suggests substantial damage to the infrastructure.
Prior to the strike, the Russian military had attempted to shield the facility using “cope nets” consisting of protective netting strung between poles. This defensive measure failed to prevent the Ukrainian drones from reaching their targets. Technical analysis indicates the depot comprised fifteen large oil tanks, six medium tanks, and two isolated smaller units, supported by a dedicated railway yard. Despite its relatively modest size, the depot is considered a high value target due to its role in the logistical support of Russian operations.
The strike represents a significant deep penetration of Russian territory. The facility is located approximately 500 kilometres from the Ukrainian border, though flight paths likely exceeded this distance to navigate around Belarusian airspace. Analysts suggest the fuel stored at this location was intended to support Russian military activities in the Sumy and Kharkiv directions.
On the night of 19 February, Ukrainian defence forces demilitarised the Velikolukska military oil depot.
The extent of the damage is being assessed.
