On July 4, 2026, Ukrainian drones launched a significant assault on the St. Petersburg region, targeting oil terminals and ports. This marked one of the largest offensive operations aimed at President Vladimir Putin’s hometown. Russian air defenses reported intercepting 72 drones, while the attacks caused local unrest and prompted authorities to suspend operations at Pulkovo Airport and restrict mobile internet services to disrupt drone navigation.
Notable incidents included a drone crashing near the historic Peterhof Palace and another hitting an oil terminal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the operations targeted oil infrastructure financing Russia’s military efforts, claiming that 42.74% of Russia’s oil refining capacity had been compromised.
Separately, Russia retaliated by attacking a gas facility in Ukraine, starting a fire and temporarily halting operations. This attack followed a recent escalation where Russian strikes killed civilians in Kiev and Sumy, underscoring the ongoing conflict’s intensity.
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