Kathmandu— Two people were killed and others injured Tuesday after drone attacks struck targets within Russia, including the Afipsky oil refinery in the Krasnodar region and the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The strikes are part of a recent escalation by Ukraine targeting Russian energy infrastructure and military assets as Kyiv seeks to disrupt Moscow’s war efforts and secure continued international support. Ukrainian forces claimed responsibility for hitting facilities at Afipsky and a gas processing plant in Astrakhan, while Russia reported striking a cargo vessel near Odesa and downing 148 drones overnight.

Refinery Strike Causes Casualties

At least two people were killed and two others injured by falling drone debris at the Afipsky railway station, according to Governor Veniamin Kondratyev. A fire broke out at the Afipsky oil refinery following the attack, though details of the extent of the damage remain unclear. Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed its forces struck facilities at the refinery as part of a broader campaign targeting Russia's energy sector.

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Targeted

The Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was also targeted in a drone attack, with management reporting that two maintenance and construction workers were injured near hydraulic structures. No details regarding any damage to the plant itself were provided by Russian-installed officials. The incident raises ongoing concerns about the safety of Europe’s largest nuclear facility amidst the conflict.

Escalating Ukrainian Strikes

Ukraine has significantly increased its attacks on Russian infrastructure in recent months, aiming to undermine Moscow's war capabilities and reduce financial revenue. In addition to the refinery and plant strikes, Kyiv claimed further hits on a gas processing plant in Astrakhan, a MiG-29 fighter jet at an airbase in Rostov oblast, and various military installations in Crimea and Zaporizhzhia oblast. The attacks follow a meeting where Ukraine’s allies pledged continued support.

Russia Responds, Tightens Control

Russia's Ministry of Defence reported striking a cargo vessel near Odesa carrying goods for the Ukrainian army, as well as port infrastructure facilities. Russian air defenses claimed to have intercepted 148 Ukrainian drones overnight. In response to the escalating attacks, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree allowing the state to temporarily seize control of critical infrastructure deemed inadequately protected.

International Reactions and Calls for Negotiation

The recent developments come after a meeting in Kyiv attended by leaders from over 30 countries supporting Ukraine. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for negotiations with Russia, while French President Emmanuel Macron predicted increased targeting of NATO countries. The Kremlin criticized Burnham and Finnish President Alexander Stubb as belonging to the “party of war”.

The situation remains volatile as Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory continue alongside ongoing fighting along the front lines. Further escalation is anticipated as Kyiv seeks to expand its strike capabilities with support from international allies.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.