Ukrainian drones strike near St Petersburg during economic forum
Drones hit infrastructure in the St Petersburg area on the opening and closing days of the International Economic Forum. Local officials reported damage but did not name specific targets. A plume of black smoke was visible over the city as delegates arrived.
upi.comUkrainian drones struck the St Petersburg area on Wednesday, producing a large plume of black smoke visible across the city skyline. Local officials stated that infrastructure had been damaged but did not identify the sites that were hit. The attacks occurred on both the first and final days of the International Economic Forum.
Delegates arriving at the expo centre on the city outskirts saw the smoke as they gathered for scheduled sessions.
Forum proceedings continue Inside the congress hall, the Russian president addressed attendees at the plenary session. He stated that the economy remained stable despite ongoing sanctions and conflict, and he rejected a proposal for direct talks with Ukrainian leadership.
When asked about the war, senior officials quoted the president's earlier remarks that the situation must be resolved soon. They did not provide additional timelines or details.
Economic conditions discussed Business representatives at the forum noted that high interest rates were limiting investment. One participant said the economy had shown resilience over the past five years but added that lower rates would support further growth.
Other attendees pointed to expanded domestic tourism as a response to restrictions on foreign travel. They described new tourist facilities being developed inside the country. A U.S. participant addressed the Russian president during the event and conveyed greetings from President Trump.
The U.S. State Department later stated it was not aware of any official delegation attending the forum.
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