Russia downs Ukrainian drones; debris damage oil pipeline near Baltic port

Russian authorities said on Sunday that air defences shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over the Leningrad region, as part of a continued wave of attacks targeting key infrastructure. Debris from one of the intercepted drones struck and damaged a section of an oil pipeline near the Baltic port of Primorsk, prompting emergency measures to safely burn off fuel, regional governor Alexander Drozdenko said.No casualties were reported, but the incident underscores the growing intensity of Ukraine’s strikes on Russian energy assets in recent months. Primorsk, located between the Finnish border and St Petersburg, has previously been targeted, including an attack in March that set an oil depot on fire, highlighting its strategic importance. On the battlefield, Russia has stepped up pressure, launching fresh offensives across eastern and southern Ukraine while continuing daily missile and drone attacks on urban areas and energy facilities. Despite this, Moscow has made only limited gains and still controls about 20% of Ukraine. Ukrainian commanders say Russian forces are attempting coordinated breakthroughs in several key areas, as Kyiv prepares for a renewed spring push with limited resources and growing concerns over air defence shortages. At the same time, the wider geopolitical situation is reshaping the conflict. Rising oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East are boosting Russia’s revenues, helping sustain its war effort, while diplomatic efforts remain stalled with no breakthrough in talks. In response, Zelenskyy is seeking new defence partnerships with Gulf countries and allies, offering Ukraine’s experience in countering drones and securing sea routes in exchange for greater military support, as Kyiv works to remain a global priority.