The Kremlin has addressed the recent drone attacks by Ukraine on St. Petersburg, asserting that its response will be systematic. This statement follows a significant strike on a major oil terminal ahead of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
During a press briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov was asked about Russia’s planned response to the drone strikes. He reiterated a previous statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, emphasizing that responses would be consistent and ongoing. However, he did not provide specific details about any new measures.
Peskov’s comments suggest that Russia will continue its established pattern of retaliatory strikes against Ukraine rather than introducing new tactics. This aligns with the Kremlin’s broader strategy in the ongoing conflict.
In the early hours of June 3, Ukrainian long-range drones targeted the oil terminal in St. Petersburg, which is the largest oil processing facility in the northwestern region of Russia. The attack resulted in a large fire, with Leningrad region Governor Alexander Drozdenko reporting the interception of 30 drones in the area.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later detailed the objectives of the nighttime assault, which included not only the oil terminal but also military facilities in Kronstadt and an arms factory in Tambov Oblast. Notably, St. Petersburg is approximately 1,100 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.
The strike on Kronstadt was particularly precise, with reports from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine indicating damage to ships and port infrastructure.
The Kremlin has confirmed its systematic response to recent Ukrainian drone strikes on St. Petersburg, indicating a continuation of established military tactics. The drone attacks targeted key infrastructure, including an oil terminal and military facilities, highlighting the ongoing conflict's reach.