Ukrainian drones hit Saint Petersburg

Ukraine has been stepping up long-range strikes as the war grinds on, with Russia's northerly second city now hit. The latest attack on Saint Petersburg takes place as an event long known as "Russia's Davos" kicks off.

Ukrainian drones on Wednesday struck energy and military targets in Saint Petersburg as Russia hosts a major economic forum.

Officials said a number of infrastructure sites were damaged, though no deaths were reported.

Regional governor Alexander Beglov said "several" facilities were hit on the outskirts of Russia's second-largest city.

Ukrainian officials said the attack aimed to disrupt the high-profile gathering, long known as "Russia's Davos," which President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend.

The Reuters news agency quoted witnesses reporting thick smoke rising over the edge of the city after the strikes.

Edited by Natalie Muller

Don't let the algorithm hide the news. If you rely on our team for trusted reporting, please take a moment to select us as your Preferred Source on Google by clicking here and hitting the "star" or "preferred" button, so you'll always see our verified news first.