Gazprom Reports Ukrainian Drone Attack on Blue Stream Pipeline Station

Gazprom confirmed on July 8 that Ukrainian drones attacked the Krasnodarskaya compressor station on the evening of July 7 at 19:51 Moscow time. The station is a critical component of Russia's gas supply infrastructure to Turkey via the Blue Stream pipeline. According to Gazprom's statement, the attack was deliberately aimed at disrupting the uninterrupted supply of Russian gas to Turkey, but the company said prompt measures prevented any supply interruptions.

Damage was sustained in the attack, and Gazprom reported that repair work is underway. The company did not provide specific details about the extent of the damage or an estimated timeline for full restoration. Ukrainian drone debris fell in the Smolensky district of Krasnodar Krai, causing a fire at an unspecified industrial facility, according to regional emergency reports.

This attack is part of a broader pattern of Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian gas infrastructure. In early April, Gazprom reported a similar attack on the Russkaya compressor station, where three drones were reportedly intercepted. Between March 17 and 19, multiple attacks were recorded with 22 drones attempting to strike facilities supporting exports via both the Blue Stream and Turkish Stream pipelines. Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously warned in late February about potential attempts to sabotage these undersea pipelines.

The timing of the incident coincides with a NATO summit in Ankara on July 7-8, where leaders from 32 NATO member states are discussing military preparedness, increased arms supplies and funding for Ukraine, and expansion of their own military capabilities. The attack underscores ongoing tensions related to energy infrastructure during the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.