On Wednesday, Ukrainian drones targeted an oil terminal and a naval facility in St. Petersburg, Russia, just hours before the commencement of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), an annual event often referred to as President Vladimir Putin’s “Russian Davos.” The strikes resulted in damage to infrastructure across various districts of the city and led to multiple injuries, as reported by Russian officials. According to Reuters, this incident represents one of the most significant drone attacks from Ukraine on Russia’s second-largest city in recent months.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the targeting of the oil terminal and the naval base at Kronstadt, home to Russia’s Baltic Fleet. Zelenskyy indicated that the attacks were directed at military-related facilities and were part of Kyiv’s ongoing strategy to undermine Russian military and energy operations, as reported by Reuters.
Russian authorities stated that air defense systems intercepted numerous drones over the Leningrad region during the night. Social media footage depicted explosions, anti-aircraft fire, and smoke billowing from sites in and around St. Petersburg. Governor Alexander Beglov mentioned that while various infrastructure locations sustained damage, no fatalities were reported.
The drone strikes also caused disruptions at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, with flight restrictions leading to delays and the cancellation of over 30 flights. Reuters noted that security measures were intensified around the city in light of the four-day economic forum.
According to AFP, residents in several neighborhoods reported hearing explosions as emergency services responded to the drone attacks. Authorities have advised the public to stay calm while security forces assess the situation and monitor the airspace around the city.
SPIEF, which commenced on Wednesday, is one of the key economic gatherings in Russia, often utilized by Putin to promote investment opportunities and foster international partnerships. This year’s forum is taking place amid a sluggish Russian economy, ongoing Western sanctions, and a protracted war with Ukraine, as noted by Reuters.
Despite Russia’s current international isolation, the annual event is expected to draw government officials, business leaders, and foreign delegates. Putin is set to deliver a keynote address later this week.
The drone attacks in St. Petersburg are part of a broader trend of Ukrainian operations targeting Russia’s energy infrastructure. Recent drone strikes have targeted refineries, fuel depots, and export facilities as Kyiv seeks to diminish Moscow’s energy revenues and military supply lines.
This incident occurred a day after Russia executed a significant missile and drone assault on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, resulting in civilian casualties. The exchange of long-range strikes underscores the escalating conflict, which has increasingly involved both sides attacking strategic infrastructure located far from the front lines.
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