Ukrainian forces struck an oil depot in the Krasnodar region on August 3. Satellite images confirm a fire at the facilities of “Rosneft Kubannefteprodukt“ in the Adler region. Krasnodar region Governor Veniamin Kondratyev reported that the fire was caused by a Ukrainian drone and engulfed several fuel tanks, News.bg reports.
Ukrainian Telegram channels have shared a photo of a burning refinery in Kstovo, Nizhny Novgorod, while Russian authorities claim to have prevented another drone attack in the area. The information was also published by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Changes in Russian Tactics
Ukrainian sources report that Russia plans to expand drone attacks from the occupied territories. According to them, Russian forces are preparing the infrastructure of selected airfields, including in Donetsk, for the launch of attack drones of the “Shahed“ type. Satellite images show the construction of facilities and logistical preparations, which is aimed at reducing the reaction time of Ukrainian air defense.
In parallel, Russia is working to strengthen the protection of its air bases. Senior Russian military officials report the development of a new generation of “Voronezh“ radars with full coverage and the construction of aircraft shelters at all bases. Satellite images confirm active construction activity at bases near the border with Ukraine and in occupied territories.
Intelligence and geopolitics
In addition to military actions, Russia is undertaking a review of its intelligence activities in Europe. According to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the number of alleged Russian sabotage and hybrid attacks on the continent increased sharply in 2024, but decreased in early 2025. This is associated with an increased NATO presence in the Black Sea and international diplomatic efforts.
Military appointments and strategy
On August 3, President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Lieutenant General Anatoly Krivonozhko as commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, a post he held on an interim basis. Zelensky stressed that the Ukrainian army is following a 20-year strategic plan for the development of aviation.
The situation on the front
In Zaporizhia Oblast, Ukrainian forces are making progress in the western part of the region, while Russian troops are carrying out offensive operations in the areas of Liman, Pokrovsk and Novopavlivka. The situation on the front line remains dynamic, with intense fighting in the eastern direction and regular changes in the positions of both sides.