Russia downs over 100 Ukrainian drones, with oil refinery among targets
Russian officials reported on Thursday that their forces had destroyed 113 Ukrainian drones overnight. Some of these drones targeted an oil refinery in the northwest, resulting in a fire in a storage tank, according to AFP.
One of the drone attacks struck an oil refinery in Velikiye Luki, approximately 500 kilometres (300 miles) west of Moscow. Regional governor Mikhail Vedernikov stated that the attack caused "a fire in an oil storage tank."
Initial reports indicated that the attack did not cause any injuries among civilians or refinery staff, Vedernikov added.
Morning opening: Zelenskyy is growing frustrated with Putin
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appears increasingly frustrated with the ongoing peace negotiations with Russia, which he describes as unproductive. He criticized Russia for repeatedly making historical claims to justify its control over Ukraine.
In a rare public statement on Wednesday, which he also shared on social media Thursday morning, Zelenskyy expressed his dissatisfaction with what he termed "historical shit," accusing the Russians of employing "delay tactics" to stall the talks.
Over the weekend, Zelenskyy urged the United States and European nations to impose sanctions on Russians residing in the West, suggesting they should, in his words, 'leave' to Russia.
His patience seems to be waning as US President Donald Trump continues to pressure Kyiv, rather than Moscow, to make concessions to reach a resolution to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Regarding the latest round of talks held in Geneva, Zelenskyy commented:
"As of today, we cannot say that the result is sufficient. The military discussed certain issues seriously and substantively. Sensitive political matters, possible compromises and the necessary meeting of leaders have not yet been sufficiently addressed."
Meanwhile, the United States stated that the talks contributed to making "meaningful progress," with commitments "to continue to work towards a peace deal together."
Separately, Zelenskyy mentioned that "Americans, and maybe some Europeans, are discussing a new document with Russia, between NATO and Russia," emphasizing that Ukraine should not be excluded from these discussions.
Looking ahead, some European countries are expected to participate in US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace event in Washington, while others, including the European Union, will attend as observers to monitor developments.
All key news updates will be provided here.
It is Thursday, 19 February 2026. Jakub Krupa reporting for Europe Live.
