Ukrainian drones struck an oil export terminal and military facilities in St. Petersburg during the night of June 3, just hours before the opening of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) — Russia’s premier platform for showcasing the country’s investment potential, often referred to as the “Russian Davos”. The attack became one of Ukraine’s most symbolic operations in recent months, targeting the hometown of Russian President Vladimir Putin during one of the Kremlin’s key political and economic events.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the primary target was the St. Petersburg Oil Terminal, one of the largest export hubs on the Baltic Sea. Ukraine also claimed to have hit a military facility in Kronstadt, home to major facilities of Russia’s Baltic Fleet and important shipbuilding infrastructure. Ukrainian military sources further released footage allegedly showing a strike on the corvette Boykiy, which was reportedly undergoing repairs at the time. The extent of the damage could not be independently verified.

Authorities in St. Petersburg confirmed that infrastructure facilities in several districts of the city had been hit. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising over the city, while residents reported hearing multiple explosions. According to Leningrad Region Governor Alexander Drozdenko, Russian air defense systems intercepted 59 drones overnight. Several people were reported injured, though no fatalities were announced. Operations at Pulkovo Airport were temporarily restricted due to the threat of further attacks, leading to dozens of flight delays and cancellations.

The strike comes amid Ukraine’s ongoing campaign against Russian energy infrastructure. In recent months, Ukrainian drones have repeatedly targeted oil refineries, fuel depots, and export terminals across Russia. Such operations are aimed not only at inflicting economic damage but also at increasing pressure on Russian military logistics and export revenues, which remain a key source of support for Russia’s military operations.

The opening of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum takes place against the backdrop of Ukrainian drone attacks on targets in St. Petersburg and Kronstadt

The political significance of the attack may prove as important as its military impact. The St. Petersburg forum has traditionally served as a showcase for the Kremlin’s narrative of economic resilience despite sanctions and international isolation. However, on the opening day of the event, the attention of participants and international media shifted away from investment projects and toward the smoke over the city and growing security concerns. The fact that Ukrainian drones were able to reach one of Russia’s most heavily protected regions during a major international forum represented a significant reputational setback for Russian authorities.

The symbolism of the attack is further amplified by St. Petersburg’s status not only as Russia’s second-largest city but also as Putin’s political home base. Ukraine has increasingly demonstrated its ability to conduct long-range strikes deep inside Russian territory, targeting sites hundreds of kilometers from the front line. Such operations are intended to signal to both Russian society and international observers that the war is no longer confined to border regions.

 

Following the incident, Russian officials pledged to strengthen air defense capabilities and continue upgrading protection measures for strategic facilities. At the same time, the attack highlighted a growing challenge for Moscow: despite significant spending on security and air defense systems, Ukrainian drones are increasingly reaching targets far beyond front-line areas. This trend places additional pressure on both Russia’s military leadership and the economic agenda that the Kremlin seeks to promote through international forums and investment initiatives.

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04.06.2026 06:43