June 3, 2026, 08:20June 3, 2026, 8:21 a.m
Before the start of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), the authorities in the metropolis warned residents and guests of drone attacks in the morning. “Danger! There is a danger of drones in the area of St. Petersburg, disruptions to the mobile internet are possible,” said the SMS sent. In St. Petersburg itself, an oil refinery is said to have caught fire. This has not been officially confirmed. Footage of a cloud of black smoke circulated on social networks.
Absolutely embarrassing morning for Russian President Vladimir Putin. As Ukrainian one-way attack drones fly nearly unimpeded over St. Petersburg – over 500 miles from Ukraine – several slamming into a major oil terminal in the city, starting massive fires and creating pillars of… pic.twitter.com/wenz5gIu6f
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) June 3, 2026
There were some injured, said St. Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglow. “Some objects were damaged. The consequences are currently being eliminated.” He did not provide any specific information about the damage. According to him, all emergency services are on increased alert.
Ukrainian one-way attack drones continue to fly over and strike infrastructure targets throughout the Northwestern Russian city of St. Petersburg. pic.twitter.com/hknNOucHm6
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) June 3, 2026
The alarm overshadowed the forum, which was usually brilliantly staged for guests from all over the world and lasted until Saturday. Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin is hosting the event himself in his hometown. Entrepreneurs and business representatives from western countries, including Germany, are also expected. AfD politicians also attend the forum, where Russia shows how it keeps its economy running in times of war and despite Western sanctions.
Russian Ministry reports shooting down of 354 drones
The Russian Defense Ministry reported the shooting down of 354 Ukrainian drones this morning, including in the region around the capital Moscow and in the Leningrad region around the metropolis of St. Petersburg. The information cannot be independently verified. There was also a drone alarm in Kronstadt, near St. Petersburg, where the Russian Navy has a base.
According to media reports, drones also struck the city of Michurinsk in the Tambov region of central Russia. The target there is said to have been a factory that also produces rocket technology. (sda/dpa)