Story perspectives

Russian EW Redirects Ukrainian Drones, Latvia Oil Fire; Minister Resigns

5/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Russian electronic warfare diverted Ukrainian drones that struck an oil storage facility in Latvia, damaging four tanks, igniting a 30-square-metre fire and prompting closures and alerts in three municipalities.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds resigned after the incident, prompting Evika Silina to name Colonel Raivis Melnis as successor.
Latvia and Lithuania urged NATO to strengthen air-defence systems in the Baltic region after the strike.

History

Historical Context

In March-April 2008 Russia shot down up to seven Georgian UAVs, an episode the IIFFMCG called the “prelude to war.” The incident exposed Russia’s electronic-warfare capability and fueled Georgia’s push for NATO protection. Today, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha says Russian EW again jammed Ukrainian drones over Latvia, echoing the 2008 Georgian disruption.

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Story summary

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Russian electronic warfare diverted Ukrainian drones that struck an oil storage facility in Latvia, damaging four tanks, igniting a 30-square-metre fire and prompting closures and alerts in three municipalities.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds resigned after the incident, prompting Evika Silina to name Colonel Raivis Melnis as successor.
Latvia and Lithuania urged NATO to strengthen air-defence systems in the Baltic region after the strike.

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