A deadly explosion at Rosneft's oil refinery in Ryazan, Russia, has resulted in the death of one worker and injuries to three others, according to reports from Russian news agencies TASS and RIA. The incident occurred during scheduled technical maintenance performed by contractors.

"During scheduled technical works at the plant, performed by employees of the contractor organisation. equipment depressurisation occurred," a refinery representative told TASS.

The Ryazan refinery, a crucial facility owned by Russia's largest oil producer, Rosneft, has been a target of Ukrainian drone attacks in recent months. Notably, the refinery suspended operations in February, approximately three weeks prior to the attack, following a significant drone strike. While the current explosion is attributed to a technical malfunction during maintenance, the location's vulnerability to attacks has raised concerns.

The refinery plays a significant role in Russia's fuel production, processing 13.1 million metric tons (262,000 barrels per day) in 2024, representing nearly 5% of the nation's total refining throughput. It is a major producer of gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, and jet fuel.

The incident is under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the precise cause of the equipment depressurization. Rosneft has yet to release a comprehensive statement regarding the fatality and injuries. The incident adds to the growing concerns about the safety and security of Russia's critical energy infrastructure amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

This is a developing story; we will update this space as and when more information gets available to us.