Ukrainian drones hit St. Petersburg energy and military sites as economic forum opens

Ukrainian drones targeted energy and military sites in St. Petersburg on Wednesday, striking oil storage facilities and causing significant fires. The attacks occurred hours before the city's flagship economic forum was set to begin, an event where President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to speak.

Explosions rocked the city as Russian air defenses attempted to intercept the long-range drones. Smoke billowed high above St. Petersburg from a blazing oil terminal after the drones hit their targets. The Guardian reported that the strikes were a blow to Putin, occurring as international guests gathered for the forum.

The economic forum is a key event for Russia, typically attracting foreign investment and high-level discussions. The drone attacks on critical infrastructure within Russia's second-largest city highlight Ukraine's expanding reach in its defense efforts.