‘Apocalyptic conditions’ after Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refinery

WorldPolitics
1 May 2026 • 3:28 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

‘Apocalyptic conditions’ after Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refinery

  • Ukraine launched its fourth attack in two weeks on the Tuapse oil refinery in Russia's Black Sea port, causing a fire but no injuries.
  • Strikes on Tuapse have led to an environmental emergency, with residents reporting "apocalyptic conditions" and oil contaminating the air, soil, and Black Sea.
  • Meanwhile, Russian drones struck the Ukrainian port city of Odesa, injuring at least 20 people and damaging residential buildings and a kindergarten.
  • Russia announced a temporary ceasefire around Victory Day on 9 May, stating it would proceed regardless of Ukraine's response.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected Russia's ceasefire proposal, advocating for a longer-term truce instead of a brief pause for a Moscow parade.

IN FULL