Ukrainian drones hit energy and military sites in Saint Petersburg on Wednesday, sending thick black smoke over the city just as international delegates gathered for Russia’s major annual economic event, the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the strikes as “fair” retaliation for Russia’s ongoing attacks and warned that further operations could follow.
Key Targets Hit in Drone Attack
The drones reportedly struck the Saint Petersburg oil terminal and the Kronstadt naval base. According to Ukraine’s drone forces commander, a Russian warship was also hit during the assault.
Saint Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglov confirmed that several people were injured and infrastructure was damaged, though no fatalities were reported. The Kremlin said it would respond “systemically” to the attack.
The strike came a day after Russian missile and drone attacks killed 23 people across Ukraine.
Forum Disrupted as Smoke Seen Over City
Ukrainian officials said the timing of the attack was intended to disrupt the high-profile economic gathering, often referred to as “Russia’s Davos.” The forum, which runs for three days, is expected to host around 20,000 participants from 130 countries.
“The Petersburg forum is opening with a nice plume of black smoke in the background after Ukrainian strikes,” said Sergiy Sternenko, an adviser to Ukraine’s defence ministry.
Smoke was visible near the venue as delegates arrived ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s scheduled keynote speech.
Forum Reflects Russia’s Growing Isolation
Since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the forum has shifted from a global economic summit to one largely attended by countries aligned with Moscow.
While earlier editions featured Western leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron, this year’s attendees include the presidents of Uzbekistan and Tanzania, along with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, reflecting Russia’s reduced engagement with the West.
