Ukraine has announced that it has struck Russia's Sheskharis oil terminal, one of the largest oil export facilities located in the port of Novorossiysk on the Black Sea, as part of a coordinated drone assault conducted on the night of May 22-23, 2026. The Ukrainian military reported significant damage, including a fire at the terminal, and mentioned that a tanker named Chrysalis was also hit during the operation.

This attack is part of a broader strategy by Ukraine to undermine Russia’s ability to fund its military operations through oil and gas revenues, targeting critical infrastructure that supplies the Kremlin's war efforts. As drone strikes on Russian oil facilities have escalated, the Ukrainian military has significantly increased its operational tempo against energy-related targets, aiming to disrupt Russia's export capabilities.

The Sheskharis oil terminal, managed by the state pipeline monopoly Transneft, is pivotal in Russia’s oil export system, handling approximately 20% of the country's seaborne oil exports. This terminal's significance lies in its capacity to facilitate the transit of millions of tons of crude oil monthly.

Following the attack, officials from the Russian government claimed that their air defense systems dealt with many drones, although details on their effectiveness in preventing damage were not provided. Meanwhile, local residents near the facility reported visible fires and explosions, further underlining the attack's impact.

The increasing frequency of such strikes reflects Ukraine's intent to not only detonate operational challenges for Russia but also to signal its resolve in the ongoing conflict while seeking additional support from Western allies to maintain and enhance their capabilities. As the situation evolves, both countries remain on high alert, particularly regarding energy supply dynamics in the region.