St. Petersburg Economic Forum Opens Amid Ukrainian Drone Strike Threats
Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered the keynote address at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) on June 5, 2026. The event opened under heightened security due to reported Ukrainian drone strikes targeting the region. In his speech, Putin focused on a "multipolar" world and the growth of BRICS, while largely avoiding direct mention of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The forum highlights Russia's attempts to navigate severe economic headwinds and international isolation.