Putin's hometown under attack: Why Ukraine struck St Petersburg ahead of Russia's biggest summit

Ukraine launched one of its largest long-range drone attacks of the war, targeting St Petersburg, the hometown of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The strikes occurred just before Russia’s annual economic forum, the country’s most significant business event. The attack involved multiple drones, marking a significant escalation in Ukraine’s use of long-range capabilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the strikes a 'fair response' to recent Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv. St Petersburg, a key political and economic hub, has been a frequent target in Russia’s propaganda narratives, often portrayed as a symbol of resilience under Ukrainian pressure. The timing of the attack, ahead of the forum, underscores its potential impact on Russia’s domestic and international economic messaging. Ukraine’s military has increasingly relied on drones and long-range missiles to counter Russian advantages in artillery and air power. The strikes highlight the evolving nature of the conflict, where precision attacks on symbolic locations play a strategic role. Russian authorities have not yet commented on the scale of damage or casualties, but the attack is expected to draw significant attention at the economic forum. The forum typically attracts global business leaders and investors, making St Petersburg a high-profile target for both military and psychological operations.