Ukraine confirms devastating strike on major oil terminal in Russia's St Petersburg

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed an oil terminal in the Russian city of St Petersburg has been hit by Ukrainian drones. The attack, which took place overnight between Friday and Saturday, is one of several that it Russian oil refineries and energy infrastructures recently.

Mr Zelenskyy said the attack targeted “oil infrastructure that generates revenue for Russia’s war” and added that his forces also successfully struck the “important military target” of Kronstadt.

The Ukrainian President also said the attack, which was also confirmed by Moscow’s officials, was part of Ukraine’s “long-range sanctions” against Russia.

Governor Alexander Beglov said the city’s Kirovsky district was hit, but also added that air defense systems successfully intercepted 72 Ukrainian drones in St Petersburg and its surrounding areas. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said his forces took control of the city of Kostyantynivka – situated near the contended Donetsk region – something which is being disputed by Ukrainian authorities.

Yesterday (3 July), a Russian attack on Kiev killed at least 18 people and injured scores more during an 11-hour barrage targeting residential areas and civilian infrastructure. Moscow claimed the attacks were retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on its oil refineries. In its latest strikes, the Kremlin launched 74 missiles and 496 long-range drones.

Polish PM Donald Tusk said there are “concerns” in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania due to Moscow’s plan to test Nato’s reaction to an armed provocation.

“I don’t mean to scare anyone but the coming months may truly be critical, also due to the changing nature of the war. These concerns are particularly palpable in the Baltic states,” Mr Tusk said during a press conference this week.

“Let’s not be afraid, we are preparing for various situations, but we cannot ignore them. We are aware of the threats, also thanks to information from our allies,” he added.