Ukrainian drone attacks on logistics centers belonging to the Russian online retail giant Wildberries have resulted in injuries and at least one fatality. The strikes targeted facilities in the Krasnodar and Stavropol regions, leading to the evacuation of workers.
In Krasnodar, 10 people were injured in an attack on a warehouse complex, with three reported to be in serious condition. The region's Governor Veniamin Kondratyev later confirmed that a young woman died of her injuries in hospital. In Nevinnomyssk, five people were injured at a separate warehouse complex, according to Stavropol Governor Vladimir Vladimirov. BBC Verify has analyzed footage confirming fires at both locations.
Wildberries founder Tatyana Kim, described as Russia's wealthiest woman, expressed her distress over the attacks on employees. "There are no words to describe all the feelings and emotions caused by the attacks on ordinary people, on our employees, on us, who are simply doing our jobs," she wrote on Telegram. "But these situations demonstrate the most important thing: we must continue to do what we do for the benefit of people."
Serhii Kuzan, chairman of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Centre, characterized Wildberries as a "vital component" of Russian logistics. He suggested that the company's website is used by Russian volunteers to purchase military equipment. Kuzan stated that the primary objective of striking Wildberries' warehouses is to disrupt Russian logistics and the supply of dual-use goods, critical electronics, and sanctioned items to the Russian army and arms manufacturers. He also noted that such strikes could have a significant impact on the Russian economy and serve as a psychological blow to Russian society.
Several hours after the attacks, a range of military gear, including body armor and drone components, was observed to be available for purchase on the Wildberries website. The drone strikes have also reportedly affected Russia's small and medium-sized businesses, causing frustration among hundreds of sellers whose livelihoods depend on online marketplaces.