Eyewitness describes aftermath of drone strike on Wildberries warehouse in St. Petersburg: fire, road closures, and waiting workers
On the morning of July 24, Ukrainian drones struck Wildberries logistics centers in Crimea, the Leningrad region, and St. Petersburg. An eyewitness recounts the scene, including the fire, blocked roads, and employees left without guidance.
In the early hours of July 24, Ukrainian forces attacked multiple Wildberries logistics centers, including targets in Crimea, the Leningrad region, and St. Petersburg. In northwestern Russia, drones damaged two warehouse complexes in Shushary and Utkina Zavod. Authorities reported no injuries.
A St. Petersburg resident who was near the site of the drone strike in Shushary spoke to Meduza about what he witnessed. According to him, mobile internet was down throughout the night, a common occurrence during drone attacks. He noticed an unusual cloud of smoke and realized the Wildberries warehouse had been destroyed.
He took a taxi to the scene. The driver expressed confusion about the targeting of Wildberries, to which the witness explained that military equipment might be stored there and that it was a blow to the Russian economy. The driver dismissed this explanation.
About four kilometers from the warehouse, the road was blocked by police. Only emergency vehicles were allowed through. Employees were walking away from the warehouses, some carrying branded bags. They appeared tired but not covered in soot.
The workers discussed the drone strike openly, understanding it was an attack by the Ukrainian military. There was no panic, but no joy either. Some criticized the air defense system, while others defended it.
Getting a taxi back was difficult as internet service was slow to return. On the bus, the mood was grim; some men loudly criticized Ukrainians, but a woman retorted. The witness noted that people in the city quickly adapt to problems, but deeper concerns remain about possible mobilization and martial law.
