Arabic version: أوكرانيا تطلق ضربات بطائرات مسيرة غير مسبوقة على سانت بطرسبرغ

Ukrainian drones targeted St Petersburg in an attack that Russian authorities have labeled as ‘unprecedented.’ The assault coincided with the final day of Russia’s annual economic forum, where President Vladimir Putin was in attendance. According to BBC News, more than 140 drones were shot down in the surrounding Leningrad region, prompting local officials to urge residents to remain indoors for safety.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that the drone strikes were a justified response to ongoing Russian military actions. He stated that the drones had traveled approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) to reach St Petersburg, successfully targeting Russian naval arsenals and a base in Kronstadt, which serves as a key outpost for the Baltic Fleet.

Local governor Aleksandr Drozdenko reported that the attacks resulted in a fire at a military facility and led to the evacuation of nearby residents. He characterized the damage to buildings as ‘insignificant.’ Additionally, Zelensky mentioned that an oil depot located 500 kilometers (310 miles) away in the Krasnodar region had also been struck as part of Ukraine’s ‘long-range sanctions’ strategy against Russia.

This latest offensive follows previous Ukrainian strikes on the outskirts of St Petersburg, which occurred just days before the economic forum commenced. The forum aimed to attract foreign investment and included participation from delegates from 130 countries, including a low-profile delegation from the United States.

Despite calls for a ceasefire and negotiations from Zelensky, Putin rejected the notion of meeting, asserting that a truce would merely allow Ukraine to regroup. He reiterated that Russia would not cease hostilities until its objectives were met, which entail Ukraine’s withdrawal from several regions and cessation of its NATO aspirations. Meanwhile, in the Russian-occupied Luhansk region, authorities have suspended coach services on two major motorways due to ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian logistics.

As the conflict continues, Ukraine’s drone capabilities have significantly evolved, allowing for regular strikes on Russian targets, particularly focusing on energy infrastructure that supports Moscow’s military efforts.