Vladimir Putin will speak at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum on Friday and is expected to take questions, likely including queries about the war in Ukraine. The forum — used by Moscow to project economic and geopolitical resilience amid sanctions — saw its opening disrupted by a multi-hour alert following a reported Ukrainian drone attack. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said Russia is producing less oil than planned due to unscheduled repairs. The event continues through Saturday with about 20,000 registered participants from over 100 countries.
Putin to Address St. Petersburg Economic Forum Amid Drone Alert and Oil Production Shortfall
FILE PHOTO - Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks during the meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (SEEC) at the Palace of Independence in Astana. (is associated with: «Putin set to address Russia's flagship economic forum») -/Kremlin/dpa
Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to speak to a large international audience at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) on Friday, outlining Russia’s economic outlook and commenting on global affairs.
Afternoon Q&A Expected To Touch On Ukraine — In the afternoon session he is expected to take questions from delegates, several of which are likely to focus on Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine and related geopolitical tensions.
Forum Aims and Atmosphere
Moscow traditionally uses the annual gathering to showcase its economic and geopolitical ambitions and to project resilience in the face of Western sanctions. Organizers say the event brings together business leaders, officials and delegations from around the world.
Security Incident and Local Impact
The forum’s opening was disrupted on Wednesday when a Ukrainian drone attack triggered an alert that lasted several hours. Delegates arriving at the venue reported seeing black smoke rising over parts of the city, underscoring heightened security concerns during the event.
Energy Sector Update
Against a backdrop of increased attacks on oil infrastructure, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told the forum on Thursday that Russia is producing less oil than originally planned. Novak attributed the shortfall to unscheduled repairs but declined to provide further detail on their cause.
The event runs through Saturday. According to the Kremlin, about 20,000 participants from more than 100 countries have registered to attend.
Note: Coverage may include questions on the war in Ukraine, sanctions, and Russia's economic plans for navigating a challenging fifth year of conflict.
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